I’ve always ended up self harming every I’m having a hard time. I know it’s not right to do. But I always do it. What should I do?

The first question you need to ask yourself is “will I be able to get clean and stay clean on my own?”. If the answer is no, that okay. We all need a little extra help from time to time and it would be a good idea to begin looking into professional treatment options. If you believe you can, start looking into healthy coping mechanisms that you can use when you feel the urge to self harm. These include which includes but isn’t limited to: You can draw on your skin with washable marker, squeeze an ice cube, eat a lemon, go for a run, listen to music, get out of the house, exercise, make some tea, write your feelings down in a journal, go to the movies, play a board game, take a bubble bath, explore nature, ground yourself by focusing on your five senses, and call a friend on the phone. Also, you can use the app calm harm. Remember that not all of these options will work for everyone but don’t give up.

I understand how challenging it might be for you! Most people self-harm because they want to express their emotions, but they aren't comfortable to talk to someone. However, self-harm won't solve your problems, but the opposite! It will create more problems that you will have to suffer! Would you like to find new ways to express your emotions? Some people in your situation including myself, have found helpful to go for a walk, write down their emotions and thinkings, talk to a friend or even to a professional, distracting themselves by watching videos, movies or hanging out with friends or even drawing themselves with red mark! Remember a red mark won't leave scars!