Self harm slapping punching self

[Whatinthelord]

About once every 6 weeks or so I have a low few days. Often during this time I feel very low on life and myself. When I’m in this zone I often end up slapping, scratching or punching myself.i have done this for a long time, since I was a teen.

I’ve never been tempted to cut myself And so I never considered it self harm. However thinking about it this weekend I Realise it is kind of isn’t it.

Does anyone else do this when low?

I have done this very occasionally.

Usually at my lowest and a subconscious cry for help.

Do you have any rl support?

If you had a friend who did this in front of you, would you feel comfortable, given that she wasn't doing herself any serious damage or would you try to stop her?

It would be really helpful if you could figure out what's causing your low days. Is it linked to your periods? Or is there a common trigger?

@Sarahlou63 yes it is linked to my period so maybe I need to think about seeking help to manage that.

It’s goes so quickly I think each time it is over I forget how bad it was until it happens again.

@Notashandyta sorry you feel that way too but it helps to know I’m not alone. I have a lot of relationships but none that are really emotionally supportive. My husband is kind but useless with emotional stuff....my parents are just a nightmare and I don’t have any friends I feel close enough too to speak to. I think part of the issue is not having a relationship where I can speak abou my feelings openly. I’m a very open person and support others but I don’t seem to have it back. Both my father and my husband have their own mental health needs....so if I meantion anything it usually gets a “ yea I feel like xyz.....” response.

Mines period too.
Pmdd. Please look it up!

And maybe spell out to your husband that you want someone to listen to you, and just give sympathy. Keep reiterating it.

Pmdd is absolutely awful, debilitating. I can't wait for menopause.

Hi OP, I remember doing this once and telling a therapist who didn't get it at all which made me feel worse.

It was a long time ago but I feel like PMT was a factor too.

Bottom line, you're not mad, you're experiencing some intense emotions that need an outlet.

Hi OP,
I’m sorry you’re struggling. I’ve experienced similar, not linked to hormones as far as I know, I have a previous history of cutting when I was younger and I recognise the thought that what you describe isn’t self harm. But, rationally, it is self harm and needs to be taken seriously as such. You could end up hurting yourself badly and also it is sending a worrying message to your brain to repeatedly enact this behaviour whenever you’re upset.
Please go to your GP and ask for a mental health referral, explain that you’ve been self harming. DBT is really good for emotional regulation and finding safer ways to cope emotionally. I’m sorry you can’t discuss this with family or your partner, it is difficult.