Self-Injury Support Group
Whether you or someone you know or love struggles with self-injury, this is the community to discuss your experience, find support, meet others going through the same, and get advice on how to stop. Working together, we can help find alternative coping skills to reduce the urge to self-harm.
Why is help so hard to find?! My daughter is a beautiful 18 year old- inside and out. She has self-injured since age 3 or 4. I've NEVER been able to understand. I have tried counselors over the years, but just when I think she's "better", I realize she's injuring again. She goes to college in another state in the fall. I'm so scared to let her go, due to all the pressure she'll be under. Where and how can I find someone who specializes in self-injury? Like everyone else, I'm scared.
In terms of help.. self harm like any other addiction is a lifetime battle. She must want to stop, or want to get better in order for her to make progress - so you are doing everything you can for her by getting her help.
For me, the self harm started to become less appealing when I went to college. I found myself in college, I fit in more, and I discovered who I want to be. Everyday, slowly got a little bit easier, and eventually I noticed that I was even happy. I found the love of my life, I am graduating in May, and while I still deal with my fair amount of issues (PTSD mostly) I am MANAGING. I am living, and I am doing it. College made me realize life can be good.
I also have a school counselor here that has dramatically helped me. She has given me so many tools (i'd be happy to share) that has drastically changed my life. I still struggle with the urges to self harm... nearly everyday and even on good days. But I went from doing it every single day and being hospitalized to seeing multiple months between relapses. Baby steps right?
I wish you and your daughter so much happiness in the future.. I know it is hard - my mom tells me all the time how hard it was for her to watch me. But keep telling your daughter you love her, everyday, and one day she will hear you, and you will be part of the reason for her getting better.
Many hugs for you and your girl xx