If you need urgent support, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E. To contact our Crisis Messenger (open 24/7) text THEMIX to 85258.
Read the community guidelines before posting ✨
Options
Advice on self-harming
Karolina28
Posts: 4 Newbie
I'm new to this page and would like to know if anyone here self-harms and if you do what advice would you give on how to stop self-harming? As I self-harm and am trying to stop as my mum just found out and is really worried about me 
[moved from Introduce Yourself by moderator, title edited]
1
Comments
I self harm, I cant really give advice on how to stop as I still do it, though it has cut back massively, ive only had 3 instances this year
what has helped me is actually using my coping techniques, my fav one is painting my nails, coming on here to help others, writing/colouring, doing housework or just getting outside away from the temptation, basically anything to keep your hands busy and your mind distracted
is your mam being supportive at all? maybe she could help distract you?
I think the main thing when trying to stop self harming is to find out why your doing it, like its different for different people... like is it to feel something/nothing, to distract you from other emotional pain etc.. once you find that out you can find ways to compensate for that feeling without hurting yourself
Hope this helps a bit
quiet often self harm is in response to a distressing situation or emotion that your feeling so it may be good to identify what that feeling is ... There is also an app called calm harm that is full of a range of activities that you can use to “Ride the wave “ as it’s often been explained that when we self harm we don’t allow ourselves to fully experience the emotion on why were upsetting but if we allow ourselves to experience it over time the feelings or urges will get less frequent and less intense m.
its definitely worth trying to reduce the amount you self harm to begin with especially if it’s something that you use to cope quiet often.
im so glad your mum is being supportive and of course all of us here on the boards will be here for you
Proud of you for talking the step in wanting to change. It can deffo be hard to stop as becomes kinda addictive
it can worth trying to find out what triggers it. If nothing through out the day then what thoughts trigger it. Being mindful of what your thinking and allowing yourself time can help reduce the intensity.
I'm glad your mum is supportive that can really help
take care
Its positive that you are looking to stop self-harming, @BubblesGoesBoo , @Millie2787 and @Shaunie have mentioned some awesome ideas including coping techniques, distractions, app recommendations and starting a new hobby. I just wanted to add in this list of different types of distractions that may be of use to you- here.
Recovering from self harm can be a tough process, however sometimes it can be helpful to know what steps to take, the article here talks some more about these steps, and how it can be beneficial to recovery.
Have you thought about visiting your GP about self harm or seeking any professional advice? It can be a massive step to do this and it can be hard to know what to expect. The Mix has an article here which talks a little bit about what to expect when going to your GP, what support may be available and what questions they may ask you. May be worth a read if and when you are ready.
Well done again for reaching out!
·