Mary's son has been self-harming (minor cuts and scratches) for several years. The cutting became worse after he started university, and he now lives at home. He still cuts himself intermittently and threatens suicide. Mary accepts the cutting as something he needs to do

Annette's son started self-harming when he was 17. He used various methods, including cutting, overdoses, electrocution and hanging, and has threatened to jump from high places. Annette never gave up supporting him; he is now much happier and no longer harms himself.

Bernadette's youngest son first self-harmed when he was 21 years old. He has not received any treatment for this from mental health services, and Bernadette has had no support herself.