Self harm question

[hopefully optimistic]

Hey guys-it’s been a little over a week since I last cut. Which is actually huge for me. I was super busy last week and didn’t even really think about...fast forward to now and it’s all I can think about. It’s like an itch that needs to be scratched. Relentless. I’ve gone longer than I thought I’d ever be able to without giving in to it...but those that have experience, will this feeling go away? I’m struggling so hard because I just want to do it and get it over with, but at the same time, know that then I’ll feel guilty and disappointed and upset st myself for giving in. Anyone relate to this?

 

[Kubash16]

I haven’t cut but I can definitely relate. Is there a healthy alternative activity you can do when the urge strikes? To get rid of bad habits you have to replace them with good habits.

 

[EveHarrington]

It can take a long time for those urges to go away. I know I had them for many, many months after I stopped my frequent self injuring, and engaged in SI type behavior (infrequently) up until a few years ago (suicide attempts aside).

 

[Muttly]

For me, it's pretty much what @EveHarrington said. The urges go away but it takes time. The strongest urges will diminish. It's god to practice distraction techniques and find alternatives to release pent up emotion and energy.

 

[Abstract]

Yes as the others said it takes time. And you can hit something occasionally that sets off the craving. I think what helps is to remind myself that giving in just results in more craving and more struggle. Momentary relief but longer term suffering. I remind myself of brain plasticity. Intrenching thos new brain pathways and not letting anything old get re coded. Having whole list if different coping you can work your way through can be helpful. Well done! :)

 

[hopefully optimistic]

Thanks for all of the responses. Helps to know that feeling like this is “normal”.

 

[sunisstillshining]

Hey guys-it’s been a little over a week since I last cut. Which is actually huge for me. I was super busy last week and didn’t even really think about...fast forward to now and it’s all I can think about. It’s like an itch that needs to be scratched. Relentless. I’ve gone longer than I thought I’d ever be able to without giving in to it...but those that have experience, will this feeling go away? I’m struggling so hard because I just want to do it and get it over with, but at the same time, know that then I’ll feel guilty and disappointed and upset st myself for giving in. Anyone relate to this?

Great job making it through a week without cutting. Are you seeing a licensed counselor or therapist? They may be able to hep you with some coping strategies. One of my friends had issues with self harming as well. She was living with her grandma and great grandmother who had difficulty understanding what she was going through. The pain of losing a child (as a teenager), and the pain from her trauma sometimes got to the point where she had to express it. Unfortunately, after days, a week, or a few weeks she would start hurting herself again to express the pain that was in her heart. I wonder how she would have done if she saw a therapist and received the help that she needed for someone who knew what she was going through. Maybe some of these resources would be helpful? When Your Skin Becomes the Canvas for your Pain | A Listly List

 

[shatter eyes]

I can relate. I use to cut when j was young and relapsed few years ago. The CBT and DBT skills has helped me become more aware of the danger signs leading up to the deed.

The urge to cut and the SI needs understanding and professionals. Surround yourself with people who get you.