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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. 
caseylh3152 profile picture
Self harm
by caseylh3152
Last post
 February 27th
...See more I have so many scars and they are pretty bad, like on my arms my thighs and my lower legs. I have been clean for a week now. My whole point is that if you're self harming please don't do it. Its really bad and its SO stupid to ruin your beautiful body like that. Your so worth it and there are people who care about you. I do. <3 :)
Marie142011 profile picture
Is that "normal"? (TW//self-harm)
by Marie142011
Last post
 February 27th
...See more I'm cutting myself, but I don't cry while I do it. Actually, I don't feel anything (except the pain) and do it automatically. Sometimes I look at my wrist afterwards and then I realize what I did. I'm sometimes schocked at myself and then I start crying and regretting it. So can anyone relate or is it only me?
Marie142011 profile picture
How to hide my wrist during the summer?
by Marie142011
Last post
 February 25th
...See more I would like to hear some ideas how to hide my wrist when it's hot without attracting attention.. I mean are there any good clothes with long sleeves for hot weather?
Alex014needshelp profile picture
(Self harm)
by Alex014needshelp
Last post
 February 22nd
...See more I do it without even crying anymore I just don't know what to think about me doing I do it because it helps me get rid of stress along that it also makes me have more stress having to wear outfit the hides it having to hide it from people that are close to me and I just don't want to do it anymore
Helloimjay profile picture
How do i get over this?
by Helloimjay
Last post
 February 9th
...See more Hello. Im only 13 and am struggling with getting over SH.  I haven’t done it in months but the thought occurs. I feel so much better now that im not doing it, but how do I stop thinking abou it? I’d really like some advice from people who actually understand 💜
Dhvani profile picture
Been 4 years, I want to do it again, i cant trust myself with myself
by Dhvani
Last post
 February 5th
...See more I have a drinking problem and i make several mistakes when drunk, im trying to be sober, normal, trying to achieve goals but at this moment my life feels like a long unsolved case. Everything feels tangled, I feel numb and frozen, I hate myself for all the mistakes I’ve done, and the only thing that will make me “feel things” again is to punish and self harm. I don’t want to break my 4 years record, but I really want to do it right now. Im collapsing. Im even ashamed to ask for help.
Blueeygirl44 profile picture
Relapsed...
by Blueeygirl44
Last post
 January 29th
...See more 4/5 years clean and just did it again im so disappointed in myself idk what to do
amusingTiger7822 profile picture
60 years old
by amusingTiger7822
Last post
 January 29th
...See more Hi I am 60 years old and just started self harming last year.  I feel lost and hopeless. Anyone here start self harming late in life?  It seems to help me feel something when I’m completely numb. 
creativeLime118 profile picture
Trigger warning
by creativeLime118
Last post
 October 1st, 2024
...See more Today I had a panic attack as I starred at a tool. I hate myself. Why do I do this. Why am I like this. I always think those things and today I dont think I've been worse before it really hurt and I had to take a shower I almost passed out. I hate myself I can't stop it. Why am I like this. Why did I end up so terrible. I'm only 13
hyunjinnn profile picture
tw
by hyunjinnn
Last post
 August 25th, 2024
...See more how to deal with a friend/family member who noticed my wounds? i don't wear band aids bcz i dont like it and i can hide but not 24*7. if there is someone who had shared same experience please give me some advices.
QueerDragonsRule profile picture
Self Harm
by QueerDragonsRule
Last post
 July 27th, 2024
...See more I need some advice on how to stop sh. Or at least to make it less frequent
InsecureChicken profile picture
I was doing so well
by InsecureChicken
Last post
 June 10th, 2024
...See more Guess I was doing so well!! I started self harming 3 years ago and I stopped a few months ago. Now I’ve started again. The scars are ugly!!

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