Self harmed for 5 years

I started self-harming at 15 (5 years ago).I still do it to this day but it's not nearly as bad as it used to be,im proud to say :D :D

I used to self-harm daily.Cutting arms,cutting off moles etc.At one point i was going to accident and emergency getting stitches almost daily.I was so numb getting the stitches done that i never felt any pain.

When i cut i get no pain either :?

It started off with scratches then to deep cuts.I remember the time i burst a vain,luckily it wasn't the main one :shock:

Now i cut about 1-2 times every 3 months :D

Im doing so good!

Just thought id share my experience.

Your not just doing good....your doing bloody great!!!!

U`ll know the reason why u self harm, most people do.

Thankfully Ive never experienced it personally, but have a friend who does.

All I can say is .....whatever way u got more control over ur self harming.....practice it even more so! Hopefully, u`ll be able to control it fully, and find some other coping mechanism.

Good on u chick... smile

Thanks Skye :D

Hi Claire

Good on you for being able to reduce your self harm! I have been trying to incorporate some DBT principles with some of the people I work with and we have started keeping 'safe' boxes....Get a box and fill it with the things that soothe you the most, some people use photo's, pieces of material, sweets anything that means something to you and makes you feel better!

Then when you have your stressful times, use the items in your box to try and soothe all the horrible, mixed up thoughts you are having......You need to practice really hard to keep focussed but by holding your special things, you can distract yourself from the impulsive feelings to self harm!

Also have a look for mindfulness tasks online, these can help to kep your mind focussed and reduce your stress!!

Good Luck

K :D