Tips for Teachers - How to support a pupil who is self-harming
Published: November 2025
Teachers and school staff may sometimes worry that a child in their care is experiencing significant emotional distress - including coping behaviours that may be unsafe.
Research suggests that Risk-related behaviours can affect a significant number of young people, and it can be difficult to know how to respond calmly and appropriately in a school setting.
This expert-led film offers clear, practical guidance for UK primary school staff and those supporting pupils during the transition to secondary school.
You’ll learn:
- How to recognise subtle warning signs of emotional distress
- How to start a calm, supportive conversation
- What to say (and what not to say) if a pupil opens up
- What to do if a child is in crisis
- When and how to follow safeguarding procedures
- How to provide ongoing, consistent support
- Why it’s important for staff to seek support too
This guidance reflects best practice in UK safeguarding and is designed to support teachers, teaching assistants, pastoral leads, DSLs and SENCOs in responding to concerns safely and compassionately.
This film does not provide medical advice. It offers general educational guidance to help school staff respond appropriately and in line with their school’s safeguarding policy.
