It was hot in the hall. The teen camp counselors had removed any excess layers they could without being immodest. Joanna sat apart wearing a long sleeve T-shirt and jeans refusing to change into a short sleeved “camp shirt.” I didn’t see it as a “red flag,” just a fashion decision. Later, Joanna’s mother walked into the bathroom and found Joanna cutting her arms with a pen knife.

Youth leaders are called upon to be vigilant. Self-injury is difficult to identify because it is the teen you would least “expect” and the warning signs we have been trained to look for do not generally manifest. Falling or failing grades are often indicators of a problem; however, persons who self-injure are often good students. While often lacking a small group of close friends would illicit concern, persons who self-injure are not anti-social and instead are often involved in extra-curricular activity.

So what should we look for? Often persons who self-injure avoid overnight events, are often not involved in activities where they would change clothes, or change in secret. You may catch a glimpse of a knife, lighter, or matches in purse or book bag or hear about their presence from another young person. Consistent excuses for injuries or scars should also raise concern.

If you suspect that a young person struggles with self-injury, it is a moral imperative to tell a parent or guardian.  Be prepared by having resources as to local hospitals, counseling programs, and websites regarding self-injury. Young people who self-injure need professional counseling and treatment because they are often carrying excruciating pain. As counselors are trained to address this deep pain, youth leaders are trained to provide welcoming, nurturing, non-judgmental environment.

Be willing to call and invite the young person personally to an event. Be careful of triggers both in the presentations given and discussion questions utilized. Try to provide the young person with choices as to which activities and small groups they might be interested in participating. Small choices we can provide reaffirm that a young person has choice, control and the ability to make healthy decisions.