Self-medication is when someone tries to solve a health problem or pain by using medicine or treatments without asking a doctor first. It's like when you try to fix a toy by yourself instead of asking your parents for help.
Sometimes self-medication can be okay, like when you have a little headache and your parent gives you an approved medicine to help. But other times, it can be dangerous. Some medicines have bad effects if you use too much or if you mix them with other medicines. It's like if you eat too many sweets, you might get a stomach ache.
That’s why it's important to not self-medicate unless it's been approved by a doctor or another trusted adult. They will be able to help you use the right amount of medicine at the right time. So, just like you would ask your parents before touching something dangerous, always ask your doctor before taking any medicine by yourself.