Borderline Personality Support Group

Does anyone else here have a problem with self mutilation? I have been having a big problem with it lately and I hate it. I've been cutting up my arms and legs and I feel so out of control. It feels like a release to see the blood, like I got something on the inside out on the outside. I know I need to stop I don't want all my family to see me like this but its so hard. does anyone have any advice. Thanks for listening.

i used to self injure alot but havent been lately...not that i have been actively trying NOT to its just something i havent really used. have you joined the self injury group here on MDJ? thats a good place to start, everyone there either deals with it now or has in the past, its a great group.

usually my only suggestion for avoiding SI or trying to control the urges to injure is by distracting yourself. it usually helps if it is something that is mentally distracting you as well as doing something with your hands. just trying to keep your mind busy and not focused on those thoughts can sometimes help you fight the urges. music and stand up comedy has helped me in the past...hope you find someething that works for you

I used to SI quite a bit, but haven't had an episode for awhile. I agree with DX-best solution is to distract. I've used scents, visual stimulus, candles or popping rubber bands to quit the obsession. If you don't have the DBT workbook yet-I would highly recommend it-good suggestions in there! I know its scary-but you can get through this! Nikki

Thank you so much I appreciate all the help

3rd that opinion - distraction techniques - you can google them if you don't have a DBT workbook or if you need i can post some links here, just holler if you need links

good luck

Thanks, I have one DBT book for borderlines and I think I am going to get the one for bipolar as well because I just so happen to have both. Can never have too much help I suppose. Thanks for the replies!

Distraction never worked much for me, but I would recommend getting rid of whatever you use to injure yourself. As a cutter, I use razor blades. If I don't have them, I don't like substitutions, so I can't do anything, even if I want to unless I go out to get them. Hopefully, creating this added time allows me to refrain. Of course, this doesn't always work, but it does limit it more.

i think thats a great idea philomela...sometimes that added time to think about it and having to actually go out and replace whatever tools you would be using is enough time for you to calm down and think more clearly that it isnt something you want to continue and maybe it will help you to stop.

i totally agree - i haven't cut at all since i got rid of what i used and it's not readily available anymore - i still have thoughts, and the distraction can help with those, but you're right - can't cut if you don't have the tool! good idea

Thanks I guess its time to get an electric razor because I use razor blades but small price to pay if I can kick this. Thanks ladies.