Advice for getting over self-harm?
I'm a teen but I stopped over a year ago after 7 years of self-harm. And although I'm dedicated to stopping, I often get the desire to do it again and sometimes it can get really difficult to resist. I tell myself I'm over it but I really don't think that's true. Any advice?
@GreasyBucket
Hey, we cant give advice, but i would like to share some resources and tips.
http://www.teenhelp.org/forums/f12-self-harm/t9418-alternatives-self-harm/
http://sirius-project.org/2011/08/16/distractions-and-alternatives-to-self-harm/
Some tips
-Another way to reduce self-harm is by using one day a week to focus on some form of self-care.
-Wait 15 minutes before harming, and then see if you still want to harm. If so, wait another 15 minutes. This helps people wait for the wave of their emotion to fall back down and be less overwhelming – riding out the wave.
-Grounding techniques also help with anger and anxiety
-Creative Expression is another really easy starting place. Self-harm is often used to express, validate, and let out emotions. Such as drawing, journalling, dancing, music etc
-Try deep breathing techniques, visualization, mindfulness, and/or meditation. http://www.pocketmindfulness.com/6-mindfulness-exercises-you-can-try-today/
https://www.youtube.com/user/TheHonestGuys (guided meditation/visualization videos)
- Another long-term coping technique is a Gratitude Journal. There isnt a wrong way to do it, but one example of how it can be done is here. http://tinybuddha.com/blog/turn-pain-to-joy-11-tips-for-a-powerful-gratitude-journal/
I hope these help. Feel free to try them out and let me know if it works for you. The links would help a lot if u check them out.
Moreover youre always welcome to pm me if u need additional support :)
