ABSTRACT
Suicidal behaviour and deliberate self-harm in children and especially adolescents are of increasing concern, as there is evidence of their increase over the last few decades. They are also thought to be occurring at younger ages. Although it was once thought that children were incapable of suicidal thoughts and ideas because of their lack of understanding of the finality of death, this has been shown not to be the case. Even children as young as 3 have been known to talk about wanting to kill themselves. Suicide and self-harm, especially in young people, are emotive issues and they can raise intense feelings in those involved, including professionals, as well as family and friends. This makes it a particularly difficult issue to deal with. It is important that teachers, who may find themselves in the position of having to deal with such situations, are aware of the issues and are given support from relevant health professionals.
