Self-harm among young people is a significant problem with on average two teenagers in every secondary school classroom having hurt themselves.
These stark statistics have led to the development of a new education pack aimed at tackling the myths associated with self harm and to reduce the stigma associated with it by raising awareness and highlighting the support available.
Young people across Greater Glasgow and Clyde are to benefit from the ‘On Edge’ resource pack which will be delivered in all secondary schools to S2 pupils and above by teachers.
The pack comprises four lesson plans designed to give pupils a rounded view of self and harm and where to access support. Discussion with young people is a key part of the lesson plans with an opportunity for pupils to express their own concerns.
Heather Sloan, Health Improvement Lead (Mental Health), said: “Self-harm among young people is a significant and growing public health problem.
“Research tells us that on average two teenagers in every secondary school classroom will have hurt themselves in response to the pressure of growing up in an increasingly complex and challenging world.
The ‘On Edge’ education resource pack has been developed in collaboration by Choose Life Renfrewshire, Renfrewshire Council, Inverclyde Community Health and Care Partnership (CHCP), West Dunbartonshire Council , West Dunbartonshire Community Health and Care Partnership and NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, and will be available in schools across Greater Glasgow and Clyde from today.
Lisa Aitken, Choose Life Renfrewshire, added: “The lesson plans in the pack have been created in collaboration with teaching staff and are designed to give pupils a rounded view of self-harm and the support available and to promote discussion.
The pack was launched today at an event which brought together teachers, pupils, youth workers, health and council staff.
The Young Minds/Cello research which is available by visiting www.youngminds.org.uk/about/our_campaigns/cello_self-harm .
Truth Hurts Report (2006) from the Mental Health Foundation which available by visiting www.mentalhealth.org.uk/publications/truth-hurts-report1/ .
The Truth About Self-Harm - for young people and their friends and families, Camelot Foundation & Mental Health Foundation (2012), available by visiting www.mentalhealth.org.uk/content/assets/PDF/publications/truth_about_self-harm_NEW_BRAND.pdf?view=Standard .