Help if you are self-harming
Whilst self-harm is a coping mechanism, it is not a permanent solution. If you are self-harming you may want to consider ways of managing your urges.
We have included some suggestions below:
1. Understanding your patterns of self-harm
- Learn to recognise triggers (more of this here)
- Become aware of the urge to self-harm
2. Distracting yourself based on the feeling behind your urge to self-harm
(whilst some of these may not work for you, try some of the examples and continue to implement those that have a more positive effect)
- If you are angry or frustrated: exercise, hitting cushions, biting on material, jumping up and down or dancing can help.
- If you are sad: wrap a blanket around you, spend time with an animal, let yourself cry or sleep, listen to music, talk to someone about your feelings, lie comfortably and breathe.
- If you feel the need for control: try writing lists, cleaning, writing a letter, weeding the garden, clenching your muscles.
- If you feel numb or disconnected: try flicking elastic bands on your wrists, holding ice cubes, smelling something with a strong odour or having a cold shower.
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