An ‘epidemic’ of self-harm: Why are more Canadian youth hurting themselves?

Pajer said the type of person who self-harms now compared to 20 years ago has changed. She said she used to expect someone with severe mental health issues such as depression or psychosis. But it’s become far more common.

“More and more of the kids don’t have what we might call a severe mental illness or a severe substance use disorder but instead are really experiencing sort of a crisis of meaning in their lives or an inability to handle their negative emotions except by cutting,” Pajer said.

“My point is that a lot of these kids don’t fit into one of our neat diagnostic categories.”

She suggested kids need to be taught at an early age to deal with and learn from negative emotions.

http://globalnews.ca/news/1678914/an-epidemic-of-self-harm-why-are-more-canadian-youth-hurting-themselves/

About The Author

Brett Ullman

Brett Ullman travels North America speaking to teens, young adults, leaders, and parents on topics including parenting, mental health, sexuality, pornography, men, dating and media. Brett's seminars engage and challenge attendees to try and connect our ancient faith with our modern culture we live in. Participants are inspired to reflect on what we know, what we believe and how our faith ought to serve as the lens through which we view and engage tough conversations in our society today.

1 Comment

  1. polly

    Brett,
    For me, I had no were to turn to.
    It was a coping mechanism.
    Self injury isn’t talked about. ( and it should be)
    Your video (you’re story the wounding embrace) is a very good example.
    What an amazing talk.
    Hope, have hope.

    Reply

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