338: Understanding Teen Self Harm: Myths vs. Reality
From Parenting Tips, Resources and Strategies for Moms and Dads of Children, & Teenagers: Impactful Parenting by Impactful Parent
April 16, 2026 · 22 min · Episode 338
About this episode
This episode discusses the realities of teen self-harm, debunking myths and providing insights for parents on how to support their children.
Understanding Teen Self Harm: Myths vs. Reality Is your teen struggling with big emotions, and you’re terrified they might be turning to self-harm? It is one of the scariest realizations a parent can face. You see the long sleeves in summer or the sudden withdrawal, and your heart sinks. You aren’t alone in this fear. In this episode of the Impactful Parenting Podcast, host Kristina Campos dives deep into a heavy but necessary conversation: Understanding Teen Self-Harm. We often go straight to the most frightening conclusions, but understanding the ”why” behind these actions is the first step toward healing. Kristina debunks common myths—like the idea that self-harm is always a suicide attempt or just a ”phase”—to help you see what is truly happening in your child’s world. [11:14] In this video, you will learn: The Reality of Self-Harm: Common forms like cutting, hitting, and burning, and why the average age of the first incident is often younger than you think. [08:58] Warning Signs to Watch For: Subtle behavioral shifts, like wearing long pants at the beach or a sudden refusal to go to the pool. [10:00] Debunking the Myths: Why self-harm is usually a coping mechanism for…
People in this episode
Host: Kristina Campos
Topics covered
- teen self-harm
- parenting
- emotional pain
- myths vs. reality
- warning signs
- connection
Keywords
- self-harm
- teenagers
- parenting tips
- emotional health
- warning signs
- coping mechanisms
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