How can I find healthy alternatives to self harm?
36 Answers
Moderated by Sarah Robb, LISW-S (Licensed Independent Social Worker, Supervisor Designation) and LICDC (Licenced Chemical Dependency Counselor)
Updated: Dec 28, 2021
Kai1243
on
Apr 23, 2015
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Outlets for your urges are great! If you like doing anything artistic (like drawing, writing, singing, dancing, etc.), that's always a great way to cope with your feelings. Exercising can also help you if you enjoy getting out, taking walks, going to the gym, anything.
Anonymous
on
Jan 23, 2015
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there are lots of articles online for alternatives. a few i used are
drawing with a red marker on the places you want to cut, then look at the cut you dont have, and the wash off the marker.
if you ever really need to cut, get a rubber band and pull it against your wrist. it gives you the relief of cutting without actually doing it.
MichaAmy
on
Apr 1, 2015
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There is plenty of help available for self harm issues, there are even videos by popular youtubers addressing the issue and giving methods of help. Instead of harming yourself you could try to find other methods of trying to release your emotions, such as listening to music, going for a walk, talking to a friend.
miraculousDaisy75
on
Dec 8, 2015
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Try squeezing an ice cube for a while or meditation. Yoga helps me also by taking my mind off the subject
iouty
on
Dec 21, 2015
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Some healthy alternatives to self harm are self love resulting. Exercise is great to help with anger and frustration which can lead to self love.
Healthy coping mechanisms can also include drawing, painting, speaking with a friend, writing poetry.
dkotabarrios
on
Apr 4, 2015
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There is no healthy alternative to self harm. If you are self harming or thinking about it, I would suggest seeking professional help from a therapist.
Anonymous
on
Apr 9, 2015
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Just google it. That always seems to work for me. A bunch of helpful sites pop up. And the alternatives on the sites are pretty helpful and of course healthy.
veritea
on
Apr 11, 2015
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Try doing something you find enjoyable. Whether it be writing in a journal or listening to music. I find opening a window at night and breathing in the night air helps clear my head.
1997Turtle
on
May 2, 2015
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google alternatives and then go through the lists on there and you should find one that works for you, there are a lot so it may take a while.
PeppermintHeart
on
May 6, 2015
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I suggest you google "coping skills". There are complete lists online of more healthy alternatives. :) Some of them might work for you, some not - take your time to find out what works best for you! x
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