[Palmolive]

Im not going to tel you whether or not you have depression or any other mental illness because I'm not medically trained to tell you so but to me it does sound like there could be a bit of depression going on here.

When it comes to the self harm are you using distractions? Things like walking, reading, writing, running, goi g it the gym, colouring, watching a good film or tv, petting pets, spending time with others, art work, playing games, going out with friends etc could all be helpful distractions and we do actually have a list of alternatives to self harm in the self harm forum too. Do you ever try doing any of these? If not maybe now is a good time to start. Have you also ever heard of the butterfly project or the paper chain project? Maybe look them up because I know a lot of people who have found them too helpful as well. Including myself.

In regards to your chest hurting do you think this could be caused by emotional pain or even anxiety? When it hurts try to take some deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth. Try to ground yourself and calm yourself a little and see if this helps. My only other concern is that this could be something physical such as asthma so if this doesn't help I suggest you see your doctor for this too.

I know this is hard for you right now but your so strong and worth so much more than you think you are. Life can get better and so can you. If you feel you need extra support right now then it might be worth talking to family and your doctor to look into other things like counselling or anxiety management. Just a thought. But for now, hang on in there and remember we're always here to help you no matter what and we'll never judge you. Okay? You can do this so keep fighting.

Hope and wishes,
Jessie