Self-harm and suicide are issues that West Dunbartonshire take seriously. We provide information on the warning signs, what to do and we direct you to people who can help.
West Dunbartonshire aims to support any young person and treat them with respect and dignity at all times. We will provide support and training to staff so they can feel confident dealing with this situation.
Self-harm is often a way of releasing feelings, including self-hatred, anger, sadness and depression. It is a coping mechanism for dealing with difficult emotions. However, it provides a temporary relief and does not deal with the underlying problems.
Suicide is deliberate self-harm which results in death. People who self-harm are clear that they do not want to die and it is not a suicide attempt.
You may see some of the risk factors and triggers listed as part of normal teenage behaviour. However, these can lead to self-harm or suicide if the individual young person cannot cope with them.
Examples of warning signs and triggers include:
There are many things you can do to help a young person thinking of self-harm or suicide. Please see the following list as a guide only:
Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) provide a service from the Acorn Centre at Vale of Leven Hospital. You can contact them on 01389 817324.
Nationally help is available from: