Self Care & Support
If you or someone you know is self-harming, there is hope and there is help. If you can’t find the info you’re looking for please visit our resource section.
I self-harm
- you may be ready to get help, or you may not be… that’s okay
- know that you do not have to go through this alone
- when you’re ready, talk to someone you can trust
- if there is nobody in person you feel you can trust, check out resources online
- think about what type of help you’d feel most comfortable with (online support, 1-on-1 counseling, support groups, etc.) so when you’re ready, you know what to look for
- make a list of things that calm you (need ideas?)
- if you are going to self-harm, do this in the least harmful way possible
- know your limits and seek help if you go too far
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I know someone who self-harms
- even though it might be uncomfortable, ask them about it, it’s okay to do this and you might offer them the first opportunity they’ve had to open up about it
- educate yourself about self-harm - there are many resources out there
- be open and honest with them, and allow them to do the same with you
- listen and don’t judge
- take them seriously
- accept that although you may not understand why they are doing this, it’s something that has helped them get through
- avoid blaming the person, as this can make them regret opening up and will only make them feel more alone
- don’t make them promise not to do it again because if they promise and then self-harm again, they may feel guilty and this would definitely not help
- if they’re struggling with how what to do, share your ideas and gently offer to do them together
- find support for yourself… while supporting someone else, it be hard to take care of ourselves