Warning: This article may be disturbing to some audiences.
1. Showing your scars will be scary, but it’s a sign of strength, bravery, and recovery.
Scars have the power to remind us that our past is real.
2. I am not doing it to get others attention, I wish I could have hidden it better.
The painful truth is that people who self-harm generally harm themselves in secret. They aren’t trying to manipulate others or draw attention to themselves. In fact, shame and fear can make it very difficult to come forward and ask for help.
3. I am more than what I am to cope, so please don’t call me a cutter.
Self-harm is sometimes viewed as a suicide attempt by people who don’t understand it. For many people self-harms is about trying to cope with difficult feelings and circumstances. Some people have described it is a way of staying alive and surviving these difficulties. However, some people who self-harm can feel suicidal and might attempt to take their own life, which is why it must always be taken seriously.
4. Just because I self-harm, doesn’t mean I am suicidal.
There's a difference in the mindset of a self-harmer and someone who is suicidal. The major difference is that of “intent”. With suicide the intent is to bring end to one’s life; to end pain and suffering. Self-harm the intent is one of trying to find relief and release from emotional pain and distress.
5. The scars tell a story, they will not define me.
Scars tell a story, and whether or not you share that story is up to you and no one else.
6. It is an addiction
When people hear the word addiction, they think of drugs and alcohol. People don't seem to realize that self-mutilation can also be an addiction.
7. Recovery is linear, if you fall down 3 times you get up 4, it’s all about not giving up.
Whenever you find yourself doubting how far you can go, just remember how far you have come. Remember everything you have faced, all the battles you have won, and all the fears you have overcome.
8. Telling someone to stop doesn’t make the pain go away, it only makes them feel worse.
Telling someone who self harms to just stop can make matters worse, you don't think they've tried or are trying to stop. It can make matters worse it's like rushing a process that has to be taken one step at a time.
9. Relapse happens, but just continue to fight it will get better.
You may have to fight a battle more than once to win it.
10. Other people won’t understand why you harm yourself, but that’s between you and whoever you trust to tell.
Look at the individual, not the harm. Look at the person beyond the scars. Scars are not important. The person that did them is important.
