WAUSAU, Wis. (WSAW) – With spring break approaching, mental health experts are urging parents to check in with their children, as data suggests youth self-harm incidents rise after school breaks.
According to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, children between the ages of 10 and 19 are more likely to engage in self-harm following extended time away from school. Linda Hall, director of the Wisconsin Office of Children’s Mental Health, says transitions back to school can be challenging.
Data on adolescent self-harm visits to Wisconsin emergency departments showed a nearly 10% increase in May 2023 compared to the previous month, and a 24% increase in adolescent visits in April 2024 compared to the month prior.
“It’s having to get back in that routine of academic pressures,” Hall said. “It can also be having to be face-to-face with lots of people again.”
Hall emphasizes self-harm is not simply a physical act but a sign of underlying emotional distress.
“When young people are self-harming, they have emotions that they’re not able to handle,” she said. “They’re getting some of it out, and it can be scary for parents to see this happening.”
If parents suspect their child is engaging in self-harm, Hall encourages open and supportive conversations rather than downplaying or dismissing the seriousness of their feelings, even if what is causing the feelings seems trivial to adults.
“Encourage them in terms of healthy coping behaviors, which are the basics like getting good sleep, eating healthy foods, getting outside, getting some physical activity, and spending time with people they like to be with,” she said.
Hall advises against reacting with fear or punishment. Instead, she stresses the importance of listening.
“Don’t try to fix it. Listen to what’s happening,” she said. “You don’t have to be worried that talking about it will make it worse. It’s really about listening (and)trying to understand where they are. If you feel like it’s a more serious situation, then encourage them to maybe go to therapy.”
Signs of self-harm can vary, but some common indicators include wearing long sleeves or pants even in warm weather, sudden changes in mood or disruptions in eating habits.
“Pick up the phone, have some conversation,” Hall said. “Maybe increase your conversations with that young person, especially if you know they tend to be anxious about school or being on campus.”
For those struggling with a mental health crisis, support is available 24/7. Call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or text 741-741 to connect with a crisis counselor.
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