How I Handle Self-Harm Urges on My Worst Days

Some days, the urge to self-harm sneaks up on me out of nowhere. It’s like my brain’s way of hitting the panic button, and I’ve had to figure out what actually helps in those moments. • I’ll snap a rubber band on my wrist—just enough to ground myself, not to hurt. • Squeezing an ice cube or running it along my arms helps cool down the urge. • Sometimes I grab a pen and draw butterflies or little doodles on my skin instead—naming them after people I love makes it feel special. • If I’m feeling really restless, I’ll scribble all over a piece of paper or write out everything I’m feeling, then crumple it up and toss it. If I can, I try to hang out with someone or just promise myself to wait 20 minutes. Most times, that’s enough for the feeling to pass. What’s one small thing you do when things get tough? #MentalHealth #SelfCare #CopingSkills #Health