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How can I stop thinking about the issue that is causing me to self-harm?

14 Answers
Last Updated: 10/23/2017 at 7:46pm
1 Tip to Feel Better
United States
Moderated by

Stacey Kiger, LPC

Licensed Professional Counselor

My belief is that therapy is not about giving advice, but joining you on your journey

Top Rated Answers
Rikke
January 25th, 2015 4:06pm
If a specific issue is causing you to self-harm, you should consider getting help to solve the problem. That, of course, can take a while, so in the meantime distraction is key! Stay active, stay busy doing the things that make you happy. Go for walks, listen to some good music, hang out with friends, watch a feel good movie. If you don't know what makes you happy, it might be time to try something new. Pick up a new hobby, teach yourself a new skill. And if distraction isn't working - talk it out with someone you trust, whether that's a friend or a 7cups listener.
TichelMeAmelia
January 27th, 2015 1:08am
Try and find something to distract yourself. I like listening to a podcast while getting some sort of movement. Eventually, I start listening to what's going on outside my head more than what's going on inside my head.
c1ov3rda1e
February 14th, 2015 7:19pm
Occupy your time and thoughts with things that make you feel good about yourself and that keep you busy. When you do think about that issue, try to switch the habit of cutting to something else. What I used to do when I felt like cutting was get a red marker and draw pictures where I would otherwise cut. Hope this helps
KendallNichole
March 11th, 2015 10:57pm
The best way to stop thinking about the issue I feel like is to accept what happened, and push yourself to move on. A way to do that, is to talk about it! Here on 7 cups we'd love to help you out with what you're going through. Talking about what's on your mind is going to help you move on in so many ways.
bigKermit79
May 23rd, 2015 5:21am
Maybe it is not that you need to stop thinking about the issue, but you need to find a new coping skill when it arises so you do not need to feel like you need to self harm. Try drawing on your arm, write a name of a loved one, or go outside, do something you love. You can try and get your mind off things, but just remember that whatever you feel is okay, and that we are here to support you. You do not need to hurt yourself.
HelpingHand27
June 4th, 2015 1:24am
Find an activity that distracts you. Surround yourself with positive people and people who care about your personal health. The more positivity you have in your life, the less likely you will want to hurt yourself
T1taniumx
June 5th, 2015 3:20pm
When you start thinking about that issue that is causing you to self-harm, try doing an activity that distracts you from harming yourself, and every time after that you start thinking about that issue do that same activity.
Listener2106
June 11th, 2015 10:24am
Distract yourself with movies, books, sport and hobbies you enjoy to take your mind completely off of the thought.
UrBeautiful25
August 3rd, 2015 3:34pm
Distraction. Always try to do something to take your mind off it. Watch a movie, draw, listen to music. Do something to occupy your mind
Geekkai
December 8th, 2015 7:43pm
Start to think about other things, like happy things. Focus on your breath and try to calm yourself by counting slowly to 10.
Anonymous
June 14th, 2016 2:52pm
Its a good thing that your seeking help. Think about the moments that made you happy, where you experienced joy.
strawberryJoy91
November 7th, 2016 12:21pm
You can start doing some sport ot activity to supply this self-harm. For example, when you feel that you have the necessity to harm yourself, go to a deserted place and shout, or, start doing boxing and throw off all these things that makes you feel worried or sad.
Greensea14
October 9th, 2017 2:18pm
You just have to remember that issue can be solved. You can move past it and you are stronger than it.
Gingerella23
October 23rd, 2017 7:46pm
Try avoiding things that have to do with that topic. As a person with past conflicts with self-harm I would avoid those topics to the best of my abilities. I also had a support team which were just a few friends who knew of my situations and helped me through it