Fallout with parents was the start, says Abu Dhabi self-harmer

“Martha” first began self-harming after an argument with her parents about going to a party.

But the act was just a manifestation of deeper anger and frustration inside the 15-yearold British national.

“I was really upset with my parents for not letting me go to a party. I felt more angry than I had ever felt before, and felt out of control,” she said.

“Before I knew what was happening I had grabbed a paper clip, straightened it out and made a long cut on my forearm.

“There was just a bit of blood and seeing this made me feel better for some reason.”

The self-harming continued as her behaviour worsened and she began to feel lost. Her mother said they noticed she was “wearing long sleeves, even in the hot weather, and we started to question why”.

“One morning I noticed scratches on her arm.”

Martha she said had been more irritable than usual and was caught drinking alcohol a few times. Her parents sought medical help at the American Centre for Psychiatry and Neurology in Abu Dhabi.

Martha said she knew that other kids at school were also cutting themselves.

“I attended therapy for a few months and learnt how to deal with my anger, and express my feelings. I also stopped drinking alcohol.

“I feel that I now have a better relationship with my parents.”

Dr Candice Render, director of rehabilitation services at ACPN, said a rift with parents is common among self-harmers.

“Spend time with your children and know what they are doing; don’t be afraid to ask questions,” she said.