Distractions and Coping Techniques
This section is not about telling you to stop self-harming. We understand that some people don’t want to stop and are satisfied that self-harm is a way of getting by. Some people do want to find another way of expressing their emotional difficulties. This section aims to provide tools that might offer some other choices.
Different distractions work for different people, and the same distraction won’t necessarily work for you every time. For example, distracting yourself from anger feels very different to distracting yourself from fear, so it’s important that you have a few different strategies to choose from, below are some examples, for more information from Mind click here.
Remember that it is important that you do take care of yourself, and you can do this in lots of ways. We know that it can be hard to think you deserve it, but trust us, it is important to look after yourself. People will be there for you but there are many things you can do on your own to look after you.
Dealing with Emotions
Everyone experiences a wide range of emotions, and finding healthy ways to deal with them is essential. Emotions can be intense and overwhelming, but there are various strategies to help manage and express them constructively. By exploring different approaches, you can discover what works best for you in different situations. Here are some ideas to help you navigate your emotions and find balance.
Tell the story of your life
Everyone has a unique story, and finding ways to express it can be an important part of understanding and sharing your experiences. Here are some methods to help you tell your story and express your feelings:
- Speak your story out loud: Share your story with yourself or someone else, either all at once or in small parts. This can help you make sense of your life and experiences.
- Write it out: Use a notebook to document your life story. Start from your earliest memory and include both the positive and negative experiences.
- Make a scrapbook: Create a scrapbook with photos, certificates, school reports, drawings, and quotes that resonate with you. This can be a living document that you add to over time.
- Express your feelings: Find the best way to convey your emotions, whether through speaking, writing, or creating.
Creative Outlets
Engaging in creative activities can be an effective way to process and express your emotions. These activities allow you to channel your feelings into something tangible. Here are some creative outlets to consider:
- Keeping a diary – of your thoughts and feelings
- Drawing – doesn’t have to be ‘art’, you could draw shapes or use colours to express how you think and feel
- Listening to music – match it to your mood
- Writing a poem or short story
- Crying – it’s ok to cry
- Writing a letter – you don’t have to send it
Do something physical
Physical activities can be a great way to release pent-up emotions and reduce stress. Engaging your body can help you feel more grounded and in control. Here are some physical activities to try:
- Going for a walk or a run
- Dancing to your favourite music
- Doing some cleaning or tidy up your room
- Going to the gym
- Shouting or swearing if you need to!
- Use a punchbag, pillow, drum or dartboard… or improvise
Do something to nurture yourself
Taking time to nurture yourself is crucial for emotional well-being. These activities can provide comfort and help you feel more balanced. Here are some self-nurturing activities to consider:
- Making yourself a cup of tea, coffee or hot chocolate
- Having a nice warm bath
- Listening to relaxing music
- Eating food you really enjoy
- Watching your favourite TV show or movie
- Playing computer games
- Reading your favourite book
- Looking at photos or things that are important to you
Distractions can help but may also be useful in delaying the urge to self-harm.