How can I get over my self harm?

A good way to get over self-harm is to try something different. Rather than doing something that will actually damage yourself, try something less dangerous such as flicking yourself with a rubber band every time you feel an urge. Other harmless coping methods include - Writing a letter, perhaps to yourself expressing your current feelings, to distract your mind - Popping bubble wrap - Punch a cushion or scream into a pillow - Squeeze a stress ball - Rub ice across your skin where you’d usually cut (Be careful not give yourself ice burns)

The best way to get over self harm is to find another coping skill to replace it with. It can be different for everyone. For example you can try to find another physical alternative instead of self harm such as drawing on your skin, sitting in the shower or snapping a rubberband on your wrist. If you want something just to distract yourself from the pain of whatever you are going through, writing down how you feel can really help, or talking to someone. Even going outside, baking, reading, or anything that helps you to relax and just clear your mind. Self harm is definitely difficult to get over but it is absolutely possible. If you try your hardest you will be able to do it. The more that you find other ways to cope and the less that you self harm, the easier it will be for you to stop. You can do this. Just hang in there!

You could try participating in the butterfly project. Whenever you get the urge to self harm, draw a butterfly on that spot. If you cut before the butterfly wears off, it dies. You can also give yourself rewards for each day you don't self harm. For example, eat a piece of chocolate. Hope this helped!

Treat yourself as you would a friend. You might feel like you want to harm yourself because others do not appreciate you, but in reality, you are a unique human being and you are appreciated. You have alot of good qualities, and you possess a lot of potential. Nothing is impossible, and showing yourself this by setting up goals you would like to achieve is a good step in resisting self harm. No matter what other people say, keep in mind that even the kindest people face criticism in some way. You would not be as unique and strong as you are if it were not for your struggles.

I started to look for new physically distracting activities when I felt urges. I started by just petting my cat and focusing on the feel of her fur, the warmth of her body, the calmness she was feeling. Then I started getting into journaling my feelings when I started feeling very overwhelmed. This allowed me to completely get everything out, even if what I was writing didn't make sense. I also found coloring, drawing and making string bracelets helpful. Self harm recovery is different for everyone though! It is important to reach out for support from friends, family, and/or professionals to heal the root of your struggle!

I'd start by trying to distract yourself. When I get urges I do something that takes a lot of my attention, like playing a video game. I feel less desire to do it around people out of fear I might get caught and that could help, too. Talking to people could distract you and possibly make you feel better, even if it's not about what's bothering you or how you're feeling. I find drawing on my arms/legs, or anywhere I want to hurt helps as well, as I can see something and feel something and it stays for a while. Small steps are important.