Self-Injury Support Group
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I am 18 years old and quit cutting more than 2 years ago after a long battle with it.
I have a job where I pick up 2 kids from school and drive them to their various activities. I noticed that one of the kids (6th grade girl) has cuts on her upper arm. I know if I could talk to her about it I could help her but how do I bring It up?
I have a job where I pick up 2 kids from school and drive them to their various activities. I noticed that one of the kids (6th grade girl) has cuts on her upper arm. I know if I could talk to her about it I could help her but how do I bring It up?
LoveAlice
That is so nice of you for caring about her! I would try to talk to her by herself. Maybe to bring it up you can just be upfront and say that you noticed her cuts are are concerned because you care about you. Let her know that she can trust and confide in you. Ask her what is wrong to make her want to do that. Make sure she knows that she is not in trouble. I know I always felt like if I talked to anyone about it that I would get into trouble.
LoveAlice
It might be uncomfortable but I think talking to her is definitely the right thing to do. You just caring will probably mean a lot to her.
PaganSpirit
I think talking to her is the right thing also. Try to reassure her that she's not in trouble and she can talk to you about it. Maybe sharing a bit about your struggle will make her feel like she's not alone. When I was young I felt like I was the only person cutting and no one would understand. I think someone like you could help her in ways others could not because of your own experiences.
KnivesAndPens
Do you guys know if I have any legal obligation to tell her parents since I am an adult? I don't want to have to tell them since I know it Is not the best in all situations.
PaganSpirit
I honestly don't know for sure if you have any legal obligation to tell her parents. I don't see how you could be legally obligated. Telling the parents could make it worse for her.
Warrior1997
I'd suggest talking to her by herself and letting her know that she's not alone. Let her know that even though she can do what she wants with her body, she deserves all the love in the world and that includes from herself. If it gets noticeably worse, I'd suggest talking to her parent(s)/legal guardian
joneszy93
I agree with pagan, if you tell her parents, it might make it worse. When my parents found out, they didn't react well at all. Also, like others have mentioned, I think it'll help that you've been through it yourself and also to let her know that she's not in trouble. I still always get that feeling that I'm in trouble when I talk about it.
guycountry
No you have not legal obligation to tell her parents. But if you feel that it is getting worse then it should like you think suicide might be something she is think then yes the legal obligation to not only tell her parents but someone like a doctor or social worker. That's one thing I don't like about becoming a pastor. Once I am a pastor I have a legal obligation to contact people who can help the person and tell the parents. I will not have the option of waiting and seeing if me talking with them helps. Good luck in whatever you do.
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