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For Immediate Release
January 17, 2024
Contact: Elizabeth Goodsitt/Jennifer Miller 608-266-1683
Health Agency Urges Parents, Caregivers to be Aware of Signs of Self-Harm After School Break
Data show increases in self-harm coincide with returning to school in September and January
As students begin the spring semester, the Department of Health Services (DHS) encourages parents and caregivers to be aware of Wisconsin Emergency Department data from the National Syndromic Surveillance Program that shows young people experience large increases in self-harm injuries at certain times of the year, including when school resumes after the winter holidays.
Self-harming increased among youth by nearly 40% in September 2022 and January 2023 compared to each of the preceding months. While September 2023 showed a smaller spike in self-harming (14% increase from August 2023), it still represents a significant concern. Self-harm refers to intentional actions to hurt oneself. Examples include cutting, hitting, poisoning, or burning. Self-harm may be done to express or lessen emotional pain. While someone who self-harms may not have the intention of suicide, they may be at greater risk of a suicide attempt or dying by suicide if they do not receive help.
"The start and return of school can be stressful for young people and families," said Paula Tran, State Health Officer and administrator of the DHS Division of Public Health. "Parents, guardians, teachers, mentors, and others can support the young people in their life by knowing the signs of self-harm, talking openly about the struggles youth are facing, and listening to what young people have to say without judgement."
View entire release here.
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