SELF-INJURY
Shedding Light
on

How to look after yourself
Responding to students who self-injure can be stressful, confusing, and emotionally draining, and many teachers and other school staff can be left feeling anxious, saddened, and frustrated after talking to students who self-injure. If a student discloses to you that they have self-injured, or you suspect that a student has self-injured, it is important for you to protect your own health and wellbeing, while also protecting the health and wellbeing of students who self-injure.
This can be achieved by:
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Following the school’s policy for responding to students who self-injure.
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Referring students who self-injure or are suspected of self-injuring to the school counsellor (if available) or the school principal, in accordance with your school’s policy.
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Debriefing with the school counsellor (if available) or the school principal to discuss your feelings and reactions.
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Take time out for yourself.
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Do things that you enjoy. Try something new.
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Take 10 slow, deep breaths.
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Go for a walk.
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Try meditation or relaxation exercises.
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Seeking support for yourself from family, friends, or crisis help lines and websites (e.g., Lifeline 13 11 14).
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Seeking professional help for yourself from a trained mental health professional.