[Palmolive]

Hi there :-)

I'm really glad you've come to us here for some help and support. I know that reaching out can be really hard for some people and I think you've taken a really positive step by doing so.

I don't know what has triggered you but I do know that it's really good that you have been able to recognise what has triggered you. I'm not going to push you into talking about whatever it is if you don't want to or don't feel able too but I just wanted you to know that if you do need to talk to someone about it, then we're always here. Whether thats you posting in here or talking to someone more in private through HelpLINK or Livehelp. We're here as a site to support you in any way that we can do.

I can understand that you don't want to get in touch with people while they are work and that's okay but just remember you're not alone. Like I have already said, we're always here for you any time and we'll be here to listen and to support you through what you are going through. Also, here is a list of people who you can talk to and here is a list of helplines who you can contact. So even if there is no one back at home who you feel able to talk to right now, there are still other people there for you, okay? You are never on your own in this love.

Now, I am sure I don't need to tell you that distracting yourself can be a wonderful help in the short term. So for that reason, here is a list of alternatives to self harm. No, it's not going to make everything that is bothering you go away, but these things can help you when you feel you're in that moment of desperately wanting to hurt yourself. But you need to remember that not every single one is going to help you. This is a trial and error process and it's important that you don't give up on every alternative there is, one something doesn't help. Keep on trying new things because different people find different things helpful and there will be ones out there which help you.

I know that beating these urges is really hard and can be exhausting but you ARE stronger than them, okay? They can't hurt you and yes they are unpleasent but they will pass eventually. You've been self harm free so long so keep fighting because you clearly have the strength to get you through this. You're in control ok? Don't let the urges take over. You can control them.

Hang in there and look after yourself.