Self-Harm
What is self-harm?
Self-harm is when somebody intentionally damages or injures their body. It's usually a way of coping with or expressing overwhelming emotional distress.
The intention is more often to punish themselves, express their distress, or relieve unbearable tension. Sometimes it's a mixture of all three. Self-harm can also be a cry for help.
What to do if you're self-harming
Speak to your GP
If you're self-harming or know somebody who is then your first point of call should be your doctor or GP. They can refer you to healthcare professionals at a local community mental health service for further assessment.
They can also refer you to counselling support and depending on your level of self-harm can check any wounds that you may have inflicted.
Coping tips for self-harm
Drawing a butterfly where you'd normally hurt yourself is a good way to focus your mind on something else. Use it to remind yourself not to self-harm and to keep trying.
If you do self-harm, you can wash it off and start again. But if you manage to keep going until it fades, it means the butterfly has flown away.
Putting an elastic band or hairband around your wrist and then flicking this against your wrist is a safer way to alleviate the feelings you are experiencing but still allows you to express your feelings.
Some people who have self-harmed have highly recommended finding a hobby, whether it be video games, art, poetry or anything else and express your feelings through that.
This redirects your focus to something more expressive and is safer to do. You may wish to find a hobby that is done individually or find a hobby you can do with friends.
Getting a stress ball is a good way to release the feelings you're experiencing when you feel like you wish to self-harm. They're really good for squeezing tight, throwing or punching to allow yourself to release the built up energy.
Getting Support
Have a look at the self-harm coping tips and distractions to get you through those tough moments
Read how you can help yourself when you feel the urge to self-harm and how to delay this from happening