Help and Support for Dealing with Self-Harm in Mind

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What is self-harm?

Self-harm involves causing damage to your body.

There are many ways a person can self-harm, which can include cutting or burning your skin, but can also take other forms, such as abusing substances like drugs or alcohol, poisoning yourself or deliberately neglecting your needs - for example by over exercising, or under/over-eating. 

Mind discusses self-harm in a little more detail on their site.  According to SeeMe, self-harm can happen at any age, but is most common in people aged 11-25. Self-harm is not about attention seeking and is often done in private.

What can I do to help myself?

If you're self-harming, there are a few things you can try first to help yourself:

  1. Ask yourself why you self-harm
    It's easier to stop if you know why you're doing it in the first place. You may be able to work this out yourself but talking to someone who is trained to help is even better.

  2. Think about what helps you feel better when you're upset 
    For some people it’s good to be with a friend they trust. Other people like doing something they enjoy like listening to music. Try to do these things instead of hurting yourself.

  3. Talk about it 
    If you feel like you just can’t stop hurting yourself then you need to talk to someone. If there isn’t anyone you know that you trust then you could try talking to one of the organisations listed below. They have trained advisors who can help you

What will happen if I go to my doctor?

Don't be worried about seeing your doctor, they will be very understanding and will be able to support you in starting to overcome your self-harm. Watch this interview with Dr Newman, who has treated several patients suffering from self-harm.

Who else can help?

ChildLine - If you really can't think of anyone you trust to talk to then try calling ChildLine on 0800 1111 advisors are there to speak to you 24 hrs a day.

Breathing Space - Breathing Space is a free, confidential phone line that anyone in Scotland can call when they are feeling low or depressed. The phone line is free from landlines and some mobiles, it's confidential and is available to the public every day. Call: 0800 83 85 87 (Monday to Thursday 6pm - 2am and Friday 6pm to Monday 6am).

Harmless - Harmless provide support and information to people who self-harm and their families and friends. There's lots of information on their website.

Find more help and support from AyeMind's helpful resources and contacts.