Self harm possible link to temporal lobe epilepsy

Hi my adult son with a severe learning disability and temporal lobe epilepsy is self harming frequently by biting deep into his arm, does anyone else have this experience? Desperately trying to find help and support for my son

SarahMod over 3 years ago

Hi again - this link also may be useful https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/mental-health/self-harm

Sarahmod
SarahMod over 3 years ago

Hi there, sorry to hear your son is self harming.

Individuals on the spectrum can often display behaviour that may be challenging. There will generally be a reason for this and it is important to try and understand the trigger for the behaviour when developing strategies. You may like to have a look at the following link for more information on behaviour and strategies:

https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/behaviour

You may be interested in seeking some professional support regarding the behaviour. You can search for professionals in your area we are aware of on the Autism Services Directory:

https://www.autism.org.uk/directory

You might also like to take a look at The Challenging Behaviour Foundation website for further information and advice:

https://www.challengingbehaviour.org.uk. They also have an information and support service which you can contact by phone or email – details can be found here: https://www.challengingbehaviour.org.uk/for-family-carers/family-support-service/

Hope that helps,

Sarahmod
Martin over 3 years ago

Self harm in autistics is most often linked to being overwhelmed by a sensory or emotional situation. The feeling is unbearable and the pain of self harm acts as a switch to self regulate and turn off the unbearable feelings.