I Need Help

It can be really difficult to ask for help and there are a lot of reasons why people decide they need help.  Someone might have noticed cuts on your arms or be concerned that you are acting differently.  It can be hard to find the words to tell people about what’s going on, what you’re feeling and about how you’re injuring yourself.

When you decide that you want to get help, it might help to remember that you’re not alone. There are a lot of other young people who self-harm who have decided to look for help.  You’ve taken the first step in admitting that you want help and a lot of other people have made the same decision – to talk to a doctor, a parent, an adult that they trust – and many have been able to cope with their self-harm.

The first step is often the hardest, admitting that you need help.  You’ve already taken that step by reading this or by talking about self-harm.  People who have stopped often say they feel a sense of relief after they talk to someone they trust.  If it’s too difficult to talk about, some people find they can write an email or a note.

Another thing that might help is to try to identify the feelings behind the self-harm.  Most of the time people that self-harm are reacting to something painful or a difficult emotion.  There might be a specific situation that makes you feel angry, or pressured, or upset.  A lot of people have trouble figuring out this on their own and might find it helpful to talk to a counsellor.

Asking someone for help can be difficult and you might feel like adults don’t always help.  If you tell someone you want help and they don’t give you the help you need or say you’re looking for attention or that it’s just a phase you have the right to find someone who can help.  You have the right to get help dealing with your emotions and with the self-harm.

It is possible to stop self-harming, but it can be difficult.  If you decide to see a counsellor or therapist, it doesn’t mean you’re crazy or that something is wrong with you.  A lot of people will see a therapist or counsellor at some point in their lives and find ways of coping with difficulties.  We don’t know everything here in Childline but we can be a good place if you need to talk.  We’re here to listen, not to judge you and not to fix your problems.  You’re always welcome to ring us or post a message on the website.