Self harm and cutting

[kaitlin9]

Ever since I can remember I have been hurting myself in some sort of way when I was little I used to bite my fingernails until they bled now I just cut ive never told anyone about my cutting but earlier this year my boyfriend of 18 months noticed what I was doing and has been trying to convince me to stop and ive been trying to because lets face it I don't like it either but ive only ever been able to go a month with out starting again. I find I do it when im really stressed and panic as it makes me feel more in control but is there a way without me having to tell my parents that i can stop this.

[Green Yoshi]

yes there is. instead of cutting and doing bad stuff when you're stressed, try going to a party or something else that is more relaxing and enjoyable. =) never ever think that cutting's the only option that will help because there's so many others. Things like just having some fun, hangout sessions or just a good movie may help =) never overlook alternative options that have positive effects!

[kaitlin9]

i cant go to party's and stuff as i cant stand crowds due to when im around people i panic (OCD)

[TheCrowing]

Take a deep breath, and make a list of things that you like to do. Keep this list with you at all times, and just go down the list every time you get an urge. Find an alternative to SH. Or do what I do.. Set a goal. When you reach this goal, reward yourself with something small (ie, something you usually wouldn't do/eat.. like your favorite ice cream?). And expand the goal by a few days/a week/a month. It really helps for me. So start with one month without it, then maybe go an extra month and a half. etc etc.

If you can't stop for someone else, stop for yourself. Stop because you want to be happy and healthy. Stop because you want to. If you don't want to, it's going to make it much more difficult.