LOUDOUN COUNTY, Va. — Parents in Loudoun County have been notified of recent texts and pictures depicting self-injurious behaviors, such as cutting, being passed around in elementary schools.

According to the emailed alert, “While this is not widespread, Loudoun County Public Schools is asking parents to be aware these messages are being circulated through social media.”

The email says the photos and texts were observed by staff members in unspecified elementary schools.

Parents are being asked to check their children’s social media accounts, and remind them if they know of a classmate experiencing problems, he or she should tell a trusted adult.

“Expressing care for a fellow student is not betraying a child’s trust,” the alert reads.