Getting over this
 

Should I not have grown out of this , I started injureing at 14 , I'm now 30 , should I just man up and get over this ****? I try but I fail time and again, it's almost easier to cave in and injure, I have relied on her for over half my life. when will I be able to quit ? if ever.

Mark,

Its not something you can just grow out off. It's an addiction. Try not to look at it as a repeated failure. Because its not, every time you get an urge and don't SI, its a victory.

Don't think of yourself as "told old" for this. Because there is no set time for recovery. Its when you are ready and able to do it. And I know you will get there eventually.

You can do this.

You are not a failure at all, far from it. Your always supporting other members and your very caring and kind. You can do this. I know its hard but self harm isnt something you can stop just like that. Please dont be hard on yourself, i realise that its easier said than done but please dont give up, we are all here for you. Keep safe

Take care best wishes Ian

You just have to do what feels right for you... When I resist the urge to actually cut usually I'm replacing it with something else whether it be getting into a fist fight with myself or going for a few beers.. neither of which are any good for me (especially as I'm not meant to drink)
Don't worry about the when's and if's, just live life and you'll find contentment one day!
Good Luck.

"Should I not have grown out of this?"

I think that's something everyone in Vets has felt at some time or another. But I don't think it's something you can just 'grow out of' - it's something you have to decide to fight against. And when you can do that has nothing to do with your age.

'... it's almost easier to cave in and injure.'

Yes, that's definitely the easier option. But you know it's not the better option.

'When will I be able to quit?'

Who knows. But I think you will be able to quit some day. And I really hope you keep working towards it, even though it isn't easy.
I hope you can use this frustration to help you, rather than drag you down.

Stay safe
xxx

SI doesn't discriminate for age, ethnicity, gender or class. It's a coping mechanism that anyone at any time can fall into. There's no time limit and you're definitely not a failure--not at all. Please stay safe and like others have said, don't be too hard on yourself. The day will come when you will be strong enough to be able to face the world without SI. Until then, find your reason/s for fighting and stick to 'em.

Take care xx

I'm 39 and still at it.

It's not something you should just grow out of, however having said that it is something you can recover from. You will recover in your own time, you have to be ready for it.