Now it's time for some transparency.
I have struggled with self harm in the past. In many forms. Most might see self harm as just "cutting".
I don't.
There are so many ways we can intentionally harm outselves to mask the other types of pain we are feeling. That's the only way I was ever able to explain my actions. When I was self harming, I was deflecting from my other problems. I was able to ignore them, even if it was just temporary.
This definition is from the Mayo Clinic's website:
"Self-injury, also called self-harm, is the act of deliberately harming your own body, such as cutting or burning yourself. It's typically not meant as a suicide attempt. Rather, self-injury is an unhealthy way to cope with emotional pain, intense anger and frustration."
Deliberately. Harming. Your OWN. Body.
Think of all the ways we can do that?
Eating disorders
- over eating
- aneorexia
- bulimia
- emotionally eating
- excessive dieting
Cutting
Alcohol abuse
Drug abuse
- illegal or prescription
Promiscuity
Staying in unhealthy relationships
- be it friend or partner
This is a short list, but this is MY list, that I have personally dealt with.
But, you know what?
It CAN get better. I'm living proof.
Ways to seek help:
- talk to someone, anyone
I say anyone, but from my experience, some people just don't understand. Being misunderstood is a lot better than keeping up this unhealthy life style.
- talk to your doctor
- talk to/get a counselor
- stop trying to ignore the situation
- learn your triggers
- learn healthy coping mechanisms
- if you're at rock bottom and just can't deal, or just don't know where to start, email me: alicia.b.walker@gmail.com
I truly hope this post can help someone.
There is hope.
