Discussion on self harm set for Sept. 21

People cope with difficult thoughts, feelings or situations in different ways. Some people engage in self-harm as a way of coping with their intense emotional pain and suffering.

Self-harm may seem frightening, but it’s important to look beyond the injuries and see what is really going on, say organizers of an upcoming community awareness event.

Safe Communities Wellington (SCW) recognizes the need to respond to the realities and impact that self-harming behavior has on individuals, families and the community as a whole.

“While it is a challenging conversation, it is one that needs to take place in a safe and supportive way,” organizers state.

The Intentional Self Harm Priority Advisory Group of SCW are hosting a free community awareness event on Sept. 21 from 7pm to 9pm at Melville United Church, 300 St. Andrew St. W. in Fergus.

Organizers state the purpose of the event to provide a diverse audience with current, credible information and engage in a conversation about what self-harm is, signs of distress, how to support someone engaging in self-harming behaviour, how someone with personal experience can cope and what resources are available to help.

The evening’s keynote speaker is Stephen Lewis, an associate professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of Guelph. His areas of expertise are self-injury and youth mental health. Lewis co-authored a book on self-injury and his research has been featured nationally and internationally.

He is the co-founder of Self-injury Outreach and Support (SiOS) that provides current information and helpful resources about self-injury for those who self-injure, those who have recovered, as well as their caregivers, family, friends, teachers and health professionals.

Following Dr. Lewis, attendees will hear from a panel of presenters who will provide unique and diverse perspectives. There will be an opportunity to ask questions and benefit from an evening of “straight talk.”