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ASilentObserver profile picture
Self-Harm Awareness Week: A Letter of Self-Kindness
by ASilentObserver
Last post
 16 hours ago
...See more Hello everyone,  This week, from March 6th to 10th, we are dedicating efforts to raise awareness about self-harm [https://www.7cups.com/forum/selfharm/WelcomesIntroductionsIcebreakers_253/SelfHarmAwarenessWeekHealingThroughSelfCompassionConnectionMarch6th10th_348138/]and foster a safe, supportive space for healing. Our theme, "Healing Through Self-Compassion & Connection," explores the importance of understanding, empathy, and practical tools for navigating difficult emotions. This exercise is part of it, and I hope you all try it.  We invite you to participate in a meaningful exercise: A Letter of Self-Kindness.  It is your safe space to express *any* feelings you have, whether positive, negative, or somewhere in between and focus on being kinder to yourself in your words. Please know there are no rules here.  You need to be honest, be vulnerable, and be you.  It is more about connecting with yourself and fostering a more mindful and kind relationship with yourself. You can do it in two ways:  1. Take a piece of paper and pen and write a letter to yourself. And let us know if you did it here in this thread and how it makes you feel.  2. If you are comfortable sharing your letter with us, you can share it here in this thread, and we all can reflect and further discuss it as you feel comfortable.   3. Anyone can do this exercise, and it is not limited to the ones who struggle with SH.  Some tips to get started * Address Yourself with Compassion: Begin your letter with a gentle and kind address, such as "Dear [Your Name]," or "To My Heart," or "To the Part of Me That Needs Kindness." * Start by acknowledging the challenges you have faced. You might write something like: "I know you've been going through a tough time," or "I see the pain you're carrying." * Write words of encouragement and support to yourself. Remind yourself that you are worthy of kindness and compassion. Whether you choose to share it with us or keep it private is entirely up to you.  We are simply here to encourage and support you on this journey of self-kindness and acceptance. Who's ready to write their letter?  Let's begin
ASilentObserver profile picture
Self-Harm Awareness Week: Healing Through Self-Compassion & Connection (March 6th - 10th) 🧡🧡
by ASilentObserver
Last post
 21 hours ago
...See more Hello everyone, This week, from March 6th to 10th, we are dedicating efforts to raise awareness about self-harm and foster a safe, supportive space for healing. Our theme, "Healing Through Self-Compassion & Connection," explores the importance of understanding, empathy, and practical tools for navigating difficult emotions. What to expect during the event week: - SH Support Circle Sessions: Join our inclusive support circle sessions, which are a safe space to share experiences, feel empowered, and find support. - Debunking Myths & Challenging Misconceptions: We'll be addressing common myths and misconceptions surrounding self-harm, promoting accurate information and reducing stigma. Click here to check forum discussion. [https://www.7cups.com/forum/selfharm/General_2451/DebunkingMythsChallengingMisconceptionsSelfHarm_348168/] - Understanding Coping Mechanisms: We'll emphasize that self-harm is often a coping mechanism, not attention-seeking, and explore healthier alternatives. Click here to read! [https://www.7cups.com/forum/selfharm/General_2451/UnderstandingCopingMechanismsBeyondSelfHarm_348271/]  - "How Can I Be Kinder to Myself?" A Journaling Activity: Engage in guided journaling to cultivate self-compassion and explore ways to nurture your well-being. Click here to find tips and get started!  [https://www.7cups.com/forum/selfharm/General_2451/SelfHarmAwarenessWeekALetterofSelfKindness_348268/] - Skills for Healing: We'll also explore and check in some practical skills, including distress tolerance and emotional regulation, to help manage difficult emotions and build resilience. Why You Should Join: Self-harm is a complex issue that requires understanding and compassion. By raising awareness, challenging misconceptions, and providing support, we can continue to build a community where individuals feel safe to seek help and heal. How to Participate: - Join our SH Support Circle Sessions in the Self Harm Recovery Group Chat. - Engage with our forum discussions and activities to share your experiences, insights, or encouragement to others. - Share this announcement to raise awareness and support those who may be struggling. Let's work together to promote and foster understanding, empathy, and support.
ASilentObserver profile picture
Understanding Coping Mechanisms: Beyond Self-Harm
by ASilentObserver
Last post
 Saturday
...See more Hello everyone,  As life throws curveballs, we all develop ways to navigate stress, pain, and difficult emotions. We know them as coping mechanisms. While some can be healthy, others can be destructive, like self-harm. Please understand that self-harm is often an unhealthy coping mechanism, not a cry for attention. It is a sign of deep emotional distress and requires empathy, support, and understanding instead of judgment. This post is part of Self-Harm Awareness Week: Healing Through Self-Compassion & Connection [https://www.7cups.com/forum/selfharm/WelcomesIntroductionsIcebreakers_253/SelfHarmAwarenessWeekHealingThroughSelfCompassionConnectionMarch6th10th_348138/]. SH is Not About Attention There is a misconception that self-harm is attention-seeking behavior. That is untrue, harmful, and inaccurate. All who struggle with self-harm often experience shame and guilt, which make them hide their behaviors. The act itself is a personal struggle and not a public display. So when someone dismisses it as attention-seeking behavior, that discourages them from reaching out and seeking help. It is not typically about seeking attention but rather about managing intense emotional pain. The common reasons for SH: * SH may provide a temporary release from overwhelming emotions like anger, sadness, or anxiety. * In moments of emotional numbness, sh may create a physical sensation that confirms they are still "feeling" something. * In some ways, it is a way to punish oneself for perceived flaws or mistakes. * It may temporarily distract from internal distress.   How can we develop healthier alternatives? SH may provide temporary relief, but it is not a healthy coping mechanism. It may cause injury, emotional distress, and a cycle of self-destructive behavior. Instead, here are some healthier ways to consider:    * Writing down your thoughts and feelings can provide a safe outlet for emotional release.    * Utilizing creative expressions in the form of painting, drawing, music, or other forms of art can help process emotions.    * Trying deep breathing exercises and focusing on slow, deep breaths to calm the nervous system can be helpful.    * Sensory grounding techniques like holding ice, listening to calming music, or using a weighted blanket can provide a sense of grounding.    * Spending time in nature can be connecting with nature and help one feel calm.    * Reaching out and sharing to get emotional support is helpful.  How to support someone who sh? If you know someone who self-harms, please take these steps to comfort and support them * Approach them with empathy and understanding. * Listen attentively and without judgment. Encourage them to share what they can. * Give your support and reassurance to them and a gentle reminder that you believe in them. * Help them figure out healthy coping mechanisms and encourage them to try them more.  When we recognize the underlying emotional pain and offer healthier alternatives, that may help one break their cycle of self-destructive behavior and find healthier paths to healing. 
LoveMyMoonflowers profile picture
just a space to keep track and stuff.
by LoveMyMoonflowers
Last post
 Friday
...See more hi,  i don't know why im making this post exactly but i wanted a space to track how many days ive been sh free. like just having all of it in one place if that makes sense. im not good at keeping track of it in my head im always real good at forgetting and stuff  and yeah thats it im not really sure what else to say…  i don’t mind replies but they're not necessary. ❤️ this space is mostly just for me to keep track of my sh free streaks. 
fairyfroggler5754 profile picture
recovery
by fairyfroggler5754
Last post
 September 19th, 2024
...See more hi. Its been a hard time getting better after my mom found out that I had been hurting myself, but i’m nearly 8 months clean and its so bizarre how far i’ve come. I’ve certainly had my ups and down but it gets better, sometimes my mom wasn’t all that supportive and I understand why but she really helped sometimes. And my friends too, they are all really amazing. I’m glad that my friends had given so many words of encouragement, they said they were proud of me so I began feeling proud of myself. It feels pretty rewarding being almost 8 months clean. Congrats to me and everyone else, we’ve all come so far!! And even if you’re one week clean at the moment just know that you CAN get better. Don’t give up, you don’t know how amazing you can be.
Spacebunny051 profile picture
Recovery streak
by Spacebunny051
Last post
 August 8th, 2024
...See more Hi! I'm new here but I wanted to share my success here to keep the negative thoughts away:)) After almost 6 years of struggling with self harm I am finally 2 months clean! It's going to get tough again once I move back to college but I think I'm in a place now where I feel safe enough to make an appointment with my university's counseling center:)) Anyways that's all, hopefully I can keep my streak going
pw123 profile picture
four months!! 🦀🦀
by pw123
Last post
 November 4th, 2023
...See more i dont usually post, and im not active on this site anymore except for stopping by to say hi on occasion — but i just wanted to celebrate this somewhere :) theres no one i can really tell this to, nowhere i can post this, so.. its going here. im four months clean!! my best so far. i think about it sometimes — only when i have a really stressful day and im upset/overwhelmed. but im not depressed anymore, and i have other methods in place, so its not something i fully consider. plus, ive gotten rid of my tools (i actually made an art piece out of them, kinda). its not something i see myself ever going back to, really. i just dont consider it a real option anymore. like i deserve better than that. so after a year and a half of sh, im done :) i know four months might seem like too short a time to say that. but before that i was gradually adding more time in between, like a month here and a month there; and so much has happened in these four months to really solidify my decision to quit. anyways, idk if anyone really reads these, but thats my victory. please know that its possible to recover. i never thought it was. i thought i “knew” i could never get better, but im here and im okay. you are not hopeless or a lost cause or any of those things your brain tells you. you’ll survive this, even though it seems impossible, even if you have to survive it many times, youre worth it and you can. <3 (idk if im allowed to post a link from tumblr so i wont - but to write love on her arms (twloha)’s tumblr page is full of really sweet reminders for people struggling with depression and sh. scrolling through it is one of those kinda comforting things for me that i go to in moments where im distressed. thats all~)
Jessis profile picture
2 years!
by Jessis
Last post
 April 24th, 2023
...See more I’m a little over two years clean, and don’t really have anyone else to share it with!
Saeka profile picture
Relapse after 5 years clean…
by Saeka
Last post
 March 9th, 2023
...See more After 5 years clean… relapsed again in December 2021.With deeper scars this time. Now I’m just living in the moment. Trying to stay clean until January… and February after that… March… I’m trying to keep myself busy all the time. My weird coping mechanism. Any tips?
Doctor280 profile picture
managed to not sh in month almost
by Doctor280
Last post
 January 26th, 2023
...See more i managed to reach 1 whole month clean and im really proud !! i’ve been dealing with some issues recently but i’m trying :)
UndertaleEnjoyerAndy profile picture
Clean streak
by UndertaleEnjoyerAndy
Last post
 January 26th, 2023
...See more I was clean for almost a week, kinda involuntarily but hey I was clean at least. Then I said screw it and relapsed in a different area and I just broke a two day streak. I'm honestly just so tired of fighting this, I know that normally I would want to fight and recover, but I just want to lay down and take it at this point. Four years in and I'm exhausted. Sorry if this was depressing.
darfj profile picture
One week!
by darfj
Last post
 January 25th, 2023
...See more I'm one week clean!!! It's been a bit tough but i did it and i'm proud of myself and it really feels good to be able to celebrate my progress:) stay strong guys it's worth it 100% i promise
pw123 profile picture
personal win :D
by pw123
Last post
 December 24th, 2022
...See more im five days clean! and, i did something nice for myself! ive been wanting arm warmers to cover my scars and i decided to just make them myself :) yes it's 1 am and they took only a couple mins and low effort to make, but im so proud of myself for making them. it's been a while since i put effort into something and longer since i did something creative just for myself. so very much a win in my books :) honestly, im not doing well. every day is so hard to get through, and most of the time im numb or sad. therapy has been making me feel worse sometimes, and theres all the family, school, holiday, etc stuff going on. sometimes this kind of personal win makes me think, you don't deserve that, or if you're well enough to do that, you've been fine this whole time. but i just feel happy for myself right now, and since im alone in that irl, i wanted to share :) also i ate somewhat regularly (2 meals + snack) today and i treated myself recently to an adventure time hoodie :D
Lovelymango1 profile picture
Update
by Lovelymango1
Last post
 December 7th, 2022
...See more Today I have reached my 3 month streak for being clean form self-harm and if I can do it everyone here can. Don’t give up, I believe in everyone, you can do this!
pw123 profile picture
5 days clean :)
by pw123
Last post
 November 8th, 2022
...See more might be a small achievement but i'm happy. the fact that i'm proud of myself is an achievement of its own, i think. i used to feel worse about staying clean - i would think to myself, "you must not really be struggling then. you're just being dramatic about everything." or "you don't deserve to recover/go this long without it." i haven't had those thoughts lately. i feel proud of myself instead. and i don't hate myself for relapsing when i do. i don't think i'll be able to recover like this though. given that i have no friends or support, all the reasons i started and keep going, traumatic experiences i never really dealt with.. but i'm doing my best. some things that help me when i'm having thoughts are chatting with someone like at trevor project or certain listeners here; making myself as comfy as possible with blankets and cozy clothes and holding my favorite stuffed animal while watching a comfort show (that way not only do i feel safe and distracted but i'm too comfy to get up and get my sh tool lol); something else from my cards (i have four index cards with sh alternatives, i don't use them often anymore but it's like distractions, self-care, outlets, and sense. so for example sense has bullet points like splashing water on my face while outlets would be like listening to sad music or writing); or a combination of all. thanks for reading :)

Hello, and welcome to the Self-Harm Recovery Subcommunity! It’s great to have you here, and we are proud of you for making the first brave step in reaching out for support. This is our supportive, safe and friendly environment, and we are glad to have you here 😃. Feel free to direct any questions to the appropriate leader of our community, which you can find at the bottom of the about section. ⭐️

🌟 Feel free to say hello and introduce yourself! Or if you want to just browse for now that is okay too! Take your time. We have several topics in our community such as the goals and success corner, recovery zone, support area and much more! Please use the relevant topic where appropriate so we can keep our community organised🌟

🌟 Please make sure to read through our community guidelines and browse our resources available 🌟

🌟 To join our community leadership team feel free to look through Here for the requirements and apply to join our team 🌟

🌟 Again, thank you for joining our community, and we look forward to seeing your progress on your journey! If you have any questions, please reach out to the relevant leader 😊

Hướng dẫn cộng đồng

These guidelines are inspired by some communities around 7 cups! This is so we can adapt our little family to accommodate as many different life experiences and situations as possible. We recognize we cannot adapt to every circumstantial rule. However, we have outlined some of the common guidelines needed for our community. ❤️

✪ Please do not share any graphic images or descriptions of self-harm tools!

✪ Please do not mention the name of any tools used for self-harm in any area of the self-harm recovery community.

✪ Names of methods of self-harm are allowed to be shared in the group support room, but where possible please try to exchange a method name for the phrase "self-harm".

✪ When mentioning methods of self-harm or potentially triggering details of another topic in the forums, please put a trigger warning at the top of the post so people are able to click away from the post if they would like to. Additionally, please try to find an appropriate place within our forums to make your post. Certain areas are reserved for specific content, so please consider this when making your post.

✪ Pro-self-harm content will not be tolerated!

✪ Please be respectful to everyone, members and listeners alike.

✪ Remember, everyone's experiences are different. Please do not undermine or invalidate anyone's situation because it is not what most would consider "normal". We are a diverse community and have people from many backgrounds, so please always be respectful!

✪ General kindness, courtesy, and etiquette are heavily appreciated!

Read the 7 Cups Guidelines