Self care for self harm *trigger warning*

[Crikeymalikey]

Sorry to have to ask here but I don’t know where/who else to ask, and also I don’t want anyone in RL to know about them.
I have some self harm wounds that have become infected and don’t know how to get them feeling better.
I don’t want to call the gp, I don’t want to talk to anyone about it, I just want to know how to heal them at home.
I’m so angry with myself for doing this again.

If you really don't want to talk to your gp I would talk to a pharmacist, they will be able to tell if an antibacterial ointment would suffice or if you need oral antibiotics. For now if you have a clean and dry dressing, you need to try keep them clean and dry so they won't get worse. If there is any spreading redness or you have a temperature, you need to seek medical attention.

How infected are we talking? If they are tracking, you won't have a choice about hospital as that is a sign of sepsis and it is far too late for home remedies.

If they are just red and gunky then use HOT salt water to clean them thoroughly and yes it will hurt like a bitch, close with butterfly strips if necessary then slather in antiseptic cream and cover with a sterile gauze dressing but only tape it down on two sides. You want some air to get to the wound but not dirt. Repeat morning and night until the redness fades and they start healing. If the infection gets worse or doesn't drastically improve in 2 days of this, you're going to have to bite the bullet and see a doctor for antibiotics.

I just wanted to post and say please don't be reluctant to see medical advice if you are worried about the cuts. I completely understand not wanting to talk to anyone about them, but if you have a bad infection, it's important that it's treated. I have been to A and E on more than one occasion with wounds that have needed treatment, and without fail, I have been treated with care and respect. HCPs have asked questions about my well being, and if I have wanted to speak to the psych team, but I have never been pressured to do so.

I hope you're okay.

If you think they might be infected then you need proper medical attention. Infections can turn nasty fast. If you seek help, you wont be judged or pressured x