Updated : February 13, 2026 By Louise Howard
Updated : February 13, 2026 By Louise Howard
Louise, a Ruby Boots Volunteer Facilitator, attended a two-day training course to gain skills and knowledge about how to handle self-harm. Here is what she learned about supporting others, and ourselves, through difficult times.
Content warning: This blog post references self-harm and suicide.
Since joining Forces Children Scotland as a volunteer in October, I have supported Ruby Boots sessions in two different schools. Working with these groups throughout a full cycle of the programme has been particularly rewarding, as it allowed me to see the growth that takes place over time.
I have also really enjoyed the behind-the-scenes aspects of being a volunteer, including the additional training we’re offered.
Recently, I completed What’s the Harm: Self-harm Awareness and Skills, delivered by Youth Scotland in partnership with Youth 1rst. This training ‘aims to help dispel the myths about self-harm and equip participants to support people who may self-harm.’
I was struck by the wide array of behaviours that can be categorised as self-harm, going beyond the assumption that self-harm primarily means cutting. I learned that there are many forms of self-harm, most of which are less visible and harder to recognise.
One of the first activities was a “personal self-harm spectrum”. We were asked to place ourselves on a scale between self-harming and self-nurturing across everyday areas of life, such as eating, sleeping, working, exercising, relaxation, friendships, family relationships, and spending.
This exercise was particularly eye-opening to me as it highlights how everyday habits can either support our wellbeing or quietly undermine it. It reframed the idea of self-harm as not one single extreme behaviour, but rather as something that exists on a spectrum.
This awareness is something I will carry forward. In social care and youth work, we have to take care of ourselves so that we can support others effectively. Compassion fatigue is real, and self-care is essential, not optional.
Another key insight I gained is that self-harm is not the same as suicidal thoughts or actions. For some people, self-harm emerges during periods of intense emotional overwhelm as a way of trying to cope. While it may bring brief relief, it is unsafe and ultimately unhelpful, highlighting the need for support to build healthier coping strategies.
From the course materials: ‘Understanding Self-harm’ seminar by Sarah Currie
If we encounter these behaviours, it’s necessary to respond with empathy so that young people have a safe place where they can be understood and supported rather than judged.
I also learned there isn’t reliable data on self-harming behaviour among young people under 16, which illustrates why careful and personal approaches are so important.
According to the Scottish Health Survey (2019), 1 in 6 16-24 year olds say they had self-harmed at some point in their lives.
While self-harm is not a direct focus of the Ruby Boots programme, this training was still incredibly valuable to me. I gained a deeper understanding of how everyday habits and routines can help or hurt your wellbeing. This is relevant to the sessions I facilitate with young people about the importance of routine, rest, sleep and stability as they adjust to new circumstances.
This training has affirmed my commitment to learning and reflection, both for my own development and so that I can be a more informed, compassionate volunteer.
I am very grateful to Forces Children Scotland for offering this opportunity. It is a pleasure to be part of a programme that values learning, wellbeing and care.
About Louise: “I was inspired to volunteer with Ruby Boots because I deeply believe in creating safe, empowering spaces for young people who experience change and transition, something I can personally relate to from my own journey. I love the collaborative aspect of the programme and the additional training we’re offered so we can better our understanding of the children. Outside of volunteering, I’m building my career in human rights, with a focus on children and young people’s wellbeing. I also love reading, baking, and spending time in cozy corners with my cat. Being part of Ruby Boots reminds me how powerful it is when young people’s voices truly shape the support they receive.”