Controlling the desire to self harm

[Ivenowheretohide]

I used to self harm when I was young - many years ago. And the desire to do so has always resurfaced at points in my life.
I've been having awful problems in the last few months where I've been targeted by local youths and children in my own home. And increasingly the desire to self harm has overwhelmed me.

Things came to a head a couple of weeks ago and I reluctantly shared with the police some information re my mental health issues. And they took this seriously enough to actually take action against some of the young people harassing me I.e. they spoke to them.

But tonight I have had more problems with local youths. Probably insignificant to most people but my overwhelming response to this is wanting to self harm. I'm struggling to formulate a rational response. I can't see a way forward.

I know my response is wrong. It is not adult or rational. How do I reset my thinking to not respond by wanting to self harm? I'm panicking as to how I deal with this situation without my response being one of self destruct.

I'm sorry you're feeling like this OP. These strategies may be able to help you
https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/self-harm/helping-yourself-now/

Can you call the Samaritans? Being able to chat might help take your mind off it long enough for the urge to pass.

There's always the option of calling 111 option 2 for mental health if you're really concerned.

As a longer term strategy I really recommend Tai Chi. You can find exercises on YouTube; it really helps to get up and move.

Regarding the local youths, there are legal remedies and you're in contact with the police. I recommend contacting your local council and your MP.

Have you heard of TIPP? It's from DBT. It can really help in the moment when you feel like you want to self-harm. https://dialecticalbehaviortherapy.com/distress-tolerance/tipp/