Ruth's eldest daughter began cutting herself during a long period of absence from school between the ages of 12 and 13. She no longer hides her cutting, which Ruth describes as horrifying.'

Jane's daughter began cutting herself at the age of 15, while she was having treatment for an eating disorder. She hasn't cut for the last 4 years.

Sarah is 42, a teacher with three daughters. Her eldest daughter, who has learning difficulties, has taken two overdoses and has been referred to a psychiatrist. Sarah hopes this will help her understand her daughter's behaviour.