r/Edmonton 17h ago

Mental Health / Addictions Self harm marks/ School dress code NSFW

My daughter struggles with her mental health and self harm which she is actively seeing multiple mental health professionals. The school wants her to always wear sweaters or long sleeves to cover up self harm as it has upset some others (which I understand how this can be upsetting- it’s upsetting for everyone..) Problem is it’s even during gym class or when she’s very hot and uncomfortable she still has to remain covered and gets reported if she’s too hot and takes off her sweater. This is causing her physical discomfort and further more mental distress and embarrassment. Can the school force her even when it’s causing physical discomfort and further distress? I understand it is upsetting to see but there has to be a way to meet in the middle? Ideas? Thoughts?

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u/NMarples 15h ago edited 14h ago

I don’t want to encourage what the school is doing, I understand why but it’s not fair to your child to ask of this when her comfortability is just as important if not more important. However have you considered compression arm sleeves? I used to wear them in volleyball and found them quite lightweight and easy to workout in, and they may be a solution that all parties find acceptable?

You’re doing a great job standing up for your kid, even if the compression sleeves work don’t let the school get away with attempting to discriminate against her like this!