Ten Year Battle - Four Years Clean

Hey 7 Cuppers!

**Trigger Warning**

It feels good to be back. Thank you for letting me join this community!

Self-injury has been a major hurdle for me for most of my young life. I have been in and out of therapy, on and off medication, and sustained two in-patient hospitalizations.

Self-harm is such a difficult topic, namely because it works and is addictive in nature. Still, it remains a maladaptive coping skill that many of us must learn to overcome. My last relapse was in 2017 after I experienced a sexual assault. After that incident, I started chipping away at myself, and took on the responsibility of genuinely embracing self-development and healing.

One of the most helpful things that I have discovered is tattoos! This is a socially acceptable way to express myself that has the potential to cover my existing scars with beautiful artwork.

Truth be told, I am still tempted by self-harm thoughts and most likely always will be. The difference is I have reconciled that this is no longer an option and so I do not act on it.

What has helped you cope in healthier ways?

-Blithe