Page 9 - Parent & Carer Support Information :: Portus

www.richmond.gov.uk/portus

Protecting your child from Looking after yourself and other
internet dangers family members

We live in a digital age and social media now has a Adults can struggle with day-to-day life too, and
big influence on children and young people, most of supporting a child going through difficulties can
whom have access to the internet through phones increase any anxiety and frustration you may feel.
or other devices.
It is normal for parents to experience strong
emotions at this time and it’s really important that
While there is a lot of useful you look after yourself as well as your child.
information online, we need to If you are supporting your child through difficulties,
be aware that there is also much you might feel upset, frustrated, confused, or scared.
content that can affect children and Your child’s recovery from self-harm and suicidal
young people’s mental health, and thoughts may be a long process, so try to find time
may sometimes put them at risk. for taking care of yourself.
Pay attention to your own physical and emotional
It’s not easy to monitor content and the following signs of stress, such as stomach aches, difficulty
steps can help to protect your child: sleeping, or struggling to manage anger. This link
provides more physical and mental symptoms of
• Inform yourself through internet safety
information sites such as Child net stress.
· Discuss internet safety and the influence of social • Do things you enjoy such as, going out with
media with your children. Child net provides ways friends, exercise, hobbies, etc.
to discuss this and negotiate boundaries with • Learn to notice and accept your own feelings. It
your child may help to write them down.
· Explore the safeguards that your internet provider • Find an outlet for your emotions, eg talking to a
can provide to ensure content is appropriate friend, relative, therapist or a support line.
· The R;pple tool has been designed specifically • You may find other emotions coming out as
to help with content relating to self-harm and anger – be careful that your child does not think
suicide this is directed at them.
• Give yourself permission only to do things that
really need doing and don’t worry about less
important tasks. Don’t try to over-achieve
• Accept help from family and friends
Explore getting support from local talking therapies
services like:
Richmond Well-being Service
Kingston - iCope
Talk Wandsworth

Portus - A Safe Space - Self-harm and Suicide Prevention - Parent & Carer Support Information
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