I haven't experienced exactly what you're going through, but I want you to know that your feelings are valid and important. It's heartbreaking to hear that you feel unable to open up about this in your relationships. Is there perhaps one trusted friend or family member you might consider confiding in? You don't have to face this alone. Your well-being matters, and I hope you can find the support and healing you deserve π«ΆπΌ
The fact that you've found a way to express yourself here shows a glimmer of hope within you. Hold onto that hope, nurture it, for it is precious. While I cannot fully understand your specific struggles, I've seen many people overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Your strength in continuing to seek connection, even in this form, is commendable. I'm sorry that professional help is out of reach for you right now, but please don't let that discourage you from seeking other forms of support. Have you ever considered exploring creative outlets as a means of expression? Art, writing, music can sometimes provide a safe space to process emotions
Hi, friend. I'm going through some tough shit myself, so I totally get where you're coming from π
First off, I wanna say you're hella brave for sharing this. It's not easy to open up about self-harm and mental health struggles. I've been there too, and it's a dark place to be. I get the therapy struggle too. It sucks that something so important is out of reach for so many of us.
You mentioned depression, and I'm right there with you. I want you to know that you're not alone, even if it feels like it, there are people out there who understand and care. Hell, I care, and I'm just some random internet stranger.
It's okay to not be okay. We're all just trying our best to get through each day. Some days are harder than others, but we have to keep pushing forward.
I hope you can find some small moments of peace or joy in your day π» you're so much more than your pain
We gotta stick together. How're you doing today? Hanging in there? Remember, it's okay if the answer is "barely" that still counts
Stay strong, friend. We've got this π
Your story really touched me. I really hope you can find safer alternatives for dealing with stress. BTW, I think mindfulness or grounding techniques might work fo you. They might help you connect with your emotions without resorting to self-harm. I know it's not the same as therapy, but it could be a step in the right direction. I hope you can find the resources and help you need to heal and grow
I know your ability to mask your pain might seem like a strength, but it's okay to let others in. Trust is built slowly, but it can be incredibly rewarding. Take care of yourself, dear. Be gentle with your soul. You've survived every difficult period in your life and that's something to be proud of. Keep reaching out, keep seeking light, even when the darkness feels overwhelming. You are not alone in this worl.
What brings you moments of peace or joy, even if they're fleeting?
I feel exactly the same way. It's like you're telling my story. I've been hiding my self-harm for so long. I'm sooo ashamed of it. I started hurting myself around 13-14 y/o. It quickly became a habit and (it's terrifying even to say) an escape from everything. Yeah, I know that a lot of people find comfort in movies, books and I found peace in self-destruction. I got really good at making excuses for the marks on my skin, so nobody ever knew what was really going on..or maybe they knew, but didn't care
I've never told anyone about this before. The thought of talking about it face to face scares me so much. I've spent years pretending everything is fine. I don't know how to be honest about my feelings anymore and yes therapy isn't an option for me either. I know I probably need help, but I can't afford it, how comical, just like my life
Oh well I made myself cry again, so dramatic LMAO. It's just the first time I've felt like someone truly gets what I'm going through. I'm so sorry you're dealing with this too. It's not fair that we have to struggle like this. I wish I could give you a hug right now. I hope things get better for both of us someday
@lalaLAND same with me. i tried to explain myself to others, but they were just looking right through me, so why bother?....
I get that therapy isn't accessible for everyone, but there are still steps you can take to support your mental health. First (and this is the most important step): Practice self-compassion by treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a friend going through a difficult time. That'll help, really. Also learn about cognitive behavioral techniques that can help you identify and challenge negative thought patterns. There're a bunch of YouTube videos on this topic. Btw, there're a lot of people who offer their knowledge for free, just type in the thing you're searching for and something'll pop up. I do guided mediations on YouTube alongside with watching others talk about something that I'm currently going through. Seek and you shall find!
@Tryx Yeah, 100%! It's so true that there's a lot we can do for our mental health even without therapy. I've found that keeping a gratitude journal helps me focus on the good stuff in my life. Even on tough days, there's usually something small to be thankful for. Spending time in nature is super refreshing for me as well. Even if it's just sitting in a park for a bit, it helps clear my head
Have you looked into any local community centers? They may offer free or low-cost counseling services. Out mental health is important and we all deserve support no matter how much money we make. Don't give up hope and be patient and kind to yourself. You've already shown immense strength by reaching out here. I hope you can find the support and resources you need to move towards a healthier, happier future. Sending positive thoughts your way <3
Silver, you are such a beautiful soul and I hope things get better for you. Don't give up and continue working hard π« If no one has told you this today, I'm so proud of you!
What you have gone through must have not been easy i understand but the way you have restrained yourself from harming, the way you took the first step to at least to express how are you feeling in this platform is the first step towards recovery and helping yourself.
You just need to understand your emotions, your triggers and challenge your assumptions that self harm is not the only way to deal with it. Kindly go to another therapist whom you feel can help, guide and understand you. Your life is precious. I understand about the costing aspect but there are online therapy services which offer discounted rates for new sign ups like betterhelp, talk space. you can check with local community centres they may do free counseling sessions. Insurance can also help you. Nami runs free peer led suport group which will help you to get an insight of how others are dealing with such issues.
Therapist will help you. Therapist would teach you physical and mental exercises to understand the triggers and develop skills to manage them.
Therapist can use :
Next time if you have thought of self harm can you try this instead:
see if this works.