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ASilentObserver profile picture
Self-Harm Awareness Week: A Letter of Self-Kindness
by ASilentObserver
Last post
 15 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
 20 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. 
ASilentObserver profile picture
Self-Harm Awareness Week: A Letter of Self-Kindness
by ASilentObserver
Last post
 15 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
 20 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.
RJhasCresteds profile picture
Wrist drawings
by RJhasCresteds
Last post
 1 day ago
...See more Do you guys draw on your wrists? Does it help? I’m trying it now to see if this can be helpful for me.
TealPhotog profile picture
Slowly realizing/ admitting this not just a “bad habit”
by TealPhotog
Last post
 2 days ago
...See more TW: SH Hello, I know that title may sound like it’s not “real” SH, but please believe me, it is. It is closely related to stress & anxiety. Even when it hurts I have a hard time stopping. I am not sure how to talk about this without talking about the method. I don’t think I have fully admitted to myself its SH, but everything points to that. I am feeling ashamed, embarrassed, scared, and lost. I a hoping to find coping methods & support here.
ASilentObserver profile picture
Debunking Myths & Challenging Misconceptions: Self-Harm
by ASilentObserver
Last post
 2 days ago
...See more Hello everyone,   This post is part of Self-Harm Awareness Week: Healing Through Self-Compassion & Connection (March 6th - 10th) [https://www.7cups.com/forum/selfharm/WelcomesIntroductionsIcebreakers_253/SelfHarmAwarenessWeekHealingThroughSelfCompassionConnectionMarch6th10th_348138/]. Today, we will be focusing on the myths and misconceptions related to Self-harm (SH).  SH is a complex issue that is often misunderstood, and that leads to harmful myths and misconceptions. These misconceptions perpetuate stigma, prevent people from reaching out and seeking help, and hinder support and comfort for them. So, this discussion is focused on discussing these myths, spread awareness, and encouraging one to reach out and share to get all the support they deserve.  Some of the common myths are * Self-harm is attention-seeking. However, that is not true. Often, SH is a way to cope with overwhelming emotional pain, not a desire for attention. * Self-harm is a sign of weakness. But in reality, SH is often a sign of intense emotional distress, not weakness. It takes courage to acknowledge and address these struggles.    * If you ignore it, it will go away. But that is untrue. It requires a lot of encouragement and support, including professional help. Ignoring it is not the solution to healing from SH.   * There is only one form of SH, which is, again, a misconception. SH includes various behaviors and other forms of self-injury.  What are your thoughts on these? Have you encountered other myths or misconceptions? Let's share and discuss it here! 
Faelwyn profile picture
Self harm urges after 8 years
by Faelwyn
Last post
 2 days ago
...See more I haven't self harmed for 8 years and I'm proud of my progress.   But it feels like I'm sliding down a slippery slope of my own creation.  This might sound weird to some but things have been going great.  Too great.   I'm not used to it and I feel super uncomfortable,  like I'm wearing someone else's life. There have been so many good things happening lately I'm finding it difficult to cope with them.  I passed a course here. I've been working on my healthy eat. I've been working on my cooking anxiety and managing to cook good meals. I'm doing great at my strength and balance classes. Plus I'm been great at setting boundaries with a group I'm in and saying no to something I didn't want to do. I even got honours in the course here. Which was great but what if I can't do that with the next course.   With all those things I feel like I'm setting myself up to fail because I did so well. What if I end up self harming after being clean for so long.  Does thar proof that I'm a bad person like my negative schema says? I'm hoping that someone else here can relate. 
thoughtfulTown5905 profile picture
I am new
by thoughtfulTown5905
Last post
 3 days ago
...See more I need some friends
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. 
Bearainy profile picture
Self Punishment〡TW: Self Harm
by Bearainy
Last post
 Thursday
...See more Trigger Warning: Self-harm. Have you ever punished yourself physically? It may sound strange, and a distant topic. However there are lot of people who are struggling with it. Nevertheless, beating yourself up isn’t healthy, solve anything, or improve behavior. Research has proven that it has a profound negative impact on our mental health, social interactions, and physical well-being. You are more precious than you think, friend. People also tend to punish themselves emotionally. For instance, by saying “You are a total failure” to themselves after falling a test. Why Do People Have These Thoughts? * Pain releases dopamine, which temporarily numbs emotional pain. * Sense of control: Psychological studies show that holding ourselves accountable for mistakes can create an illusion of control—believing we can change outcomes by altering our behavior. Unfortunately, this is rarely the case. * Past trauma: If you grew up in an abusive environment, self-punishment may have been normalized or learned behavior. *  Mental illness  * High/unrealistic standards for oneselves Why It’s Harmful? * Addiction risk: Self-harm can become addictive and cause lasting psychological and physical damage. * Avoids root causes: Punishment—whether directed at children or oneself—fails to address underlying issues (e.g., procrastination may stem from perfectionism or overwhelm). * Escalates guilt: Self-punishment often exacerbates feelings of shame. * False relief: Physical pain triggers chemicals that mask emotional pain, but this is not true punishment. * Can affect relationship with friends, and family. Reasons To Stop Self Punishment *  You deserve kindness: You are a resilient being who has navigated challenges. Treat yourself with the love and respect you deserve. * Legitimacy of harm: Past mistreatment does not justify continuing cycles of self-harm. * Healing through self-compassion: Loving yourself is the most effective way to transform your circumstances. * Imperfection is human: Mistakes are universal—they do not define your worth. * The longer you ignore it, the more difficult it becomes to change. Alternatives To Try  * Journal: Write down triggers and events from a third-person perspective to process emotions. Try to be compassionate, writing about yourself like you would with a friend. * Positive affirmations: Repeat phrases like “I am enough” to reinforce self-compassion. * Mindfulness: Practice short meditations or take a walk to ground yourself. * Self-soothe: Hug yourself gently or verbally forgive yourself. * Reach out: Contact local hotlines, trusted loved one, or even an AI chatbox. Conclusion Buddy, perhaps no one has told you this, but you are extraordinary. I cannot fathom the pain you’ve endured or the burdens you carry today. Yet I am endlessly proud of you—for seeking support, for choosing hope, and for moving forward. May life cradle you gently. May loved ones hold you close in struggle. May you find acceptance and unwavering support on your journey.       Sending you warmth and strength. (The author is unauthorized to give a diagnosis, if you wish to receive proper help, please do so with authorized specialist. And 7 Cups is not a crisis platform. If you are having intense thoughts about harming yourself, please logo off and reach out to : https://help.7cups.com/hc/en-us/articles/360026238093-Crisis)
determinedSea4370 profile picture
I'm an attention-seeker
by determinedSea4370
Last post
 Thursday
...See more Trigger warning, I guess. I thought I was done with this, but I wasn't. After a bad day of teaching and then being paralyzed with exhaustion, I was just intent on self destruction, so I drank and then sensory issues at home sent me spiraling into a real breakdown. All my past traumas attacked me. I cried myself to sleep in the bathtub, making sure that no one heard me. I moved back to bed during the night. I woke up in the morning. I couldn't get out of bed. I had no motivation for anything. My family knew I was in bed all day, but no one helped me. Nothing seemed real. Self harm seemed like the only way to acknowledge my internal pain and move on, to shock my system- so I relapsed. It was bad. But, I just wanted to make it worse and worse so I would finally have an excuse to ask for help, to prove that I needed help.  It was only when I felt like I was on the verge of needing stitches that I called my friend to take care of me and she let me stay at her house for the rest of the day.  I wanted to be taken care of, but now I just feel anxious and ashamed.  I'm seeing my therapist today. Please wish me luck that I don't have another breakdown and I can actually catch up on my work today.
ASilentObserver profile picture
Shine Bright: I am SH-free for ____ Days
by ASilentObserver
Last post
 Thursday
...See more Well done! 💪✨  (Number) days free from self-harm is a significant accomplishment.  Please take a moment to acknowledge your strength and resilience and celebrate with us. Here are a few points to reflect on and celebrate:  * What helped you stay strong these past few days? Was it a specific coping mechanism, a supportive person, or a personal mantra? Share your tips to inspire others. * What positive changes have you noticed since being SH-free? Maybe you have more energy, better sleep, or a renewed sense of hope. Reflect on the progress you've made. * What are you looking forward to in the future? Use this milestone as a springboard for setting new goals or focusing on activities you enjoy. * Write a message to your future self: What words of encouragement would you tell yourself for the days ahead? Start sharing with us. We believe in you. 

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