Ways to distract yourself when you want to self harm

[ToadsThePeanutButterSnob]

Had a shitty week and the urge to self harm is strong but I know I shouldn't.

How can I distract myself?

Bath? Watch amusing animal videos on YouTube? Bake something? Go for a walk? Any crappy TV you can watch?

Intense video gaming x

Google DBT TIPP skills. Loads of good little videos on YouTube. Evidence based ways of bringing your distress down to a more tolerable level. Take care OP

Go out. You won't/can't do it in public.

Do you have something that you enjoy out of the house? A sport, going to a quiet place like a library, going for a coffee?

Go. It will pass. Be strong.

Also, maybe call the Samaritans or text SHOUT. They have trained people to talk to.

There is also CALM op.

Would it be helpful to access counselling for general support?

Also, for some individuals I believe using ice or elastic bands can be helpful.

Honestly? As the previous poster said the only thing that worked for me when I was still doing it was putting ice there instead or pinging an elastic band on my wrist

Thank for all the helpful replies.

I have tried the ice thing before and it does work but we don't have any in the house and I didn't have the energy to go to the shop.

In the end I just did a load of cleaning and house work and the urges have gone.

Well done. Hope you're proud of yourself.

Well done for riding the urge. This website has lots of suggestions for distraction techniques www.nshn.co.uk/downloads.html

Just wanted to send you some love. I've been there, and you are doing brilliantly

Well done! Have you got RL support?

@mummymathsteacher

Just wanted to send you some love. I've been there, and you are doing brilliantly

Thank you

@redheadonascooter

Well done! Have you got RL support?

Yes I have some rl support. I do feel sorry for the people who have to put up with me though

Well done op. It's hard to sit with but a great feeling when you've ridden the wave and come out the other side!