Talking about my self-harm

[Celticroots]

I am doing the program My Voice My Choice. ( I am in the U.S. But not all states have My Voice My Choice but mine does.) That is designed to help people who have disabilities to live independently. I am high-functioning, but I do have someone who helps me during the day with money management, budgeting, cooking, etc. I have been able to choose who I want to help me so I am not matched with someone I don't click with.

While filling out the paperwork for the program, they asked if there was anything that the participant (me) struggled with. Self-harm was listed. Which is what I struggle with.

Anyway, I know I'll have to tell my helper about my self-harm eventually. I like being with her, but I am worried about how she will react. My self-harm is not something I talk about, unless someone has to know like in my helper's case.

Plus, I don't want her to accidentally see my SI bruises and think I am being abused, so I took that into consideration.

Anyway, I am worried about bringing it up. I was thinking I could have her talk to my counselor who could help her better understand self-harm.

Do you guys have other suggestions?

[TrixiePix]

I told you my suggestion, just wanted to say good luck

*hugs*

[Wonderland.]

I think the idea of her speaking to your counsellor is a great one, and I really think it would help here understand and perhaps help you a bit. If that plan doesn't work out then if speaking to her face to face about it is too difficult at first then perhaps you could write her a letter.

I hope you managed to let her know.

Amy x

[Delephynite]

Sorry M'love. I think you're gonna have to bite the bullet and talk to her yourself. Your counsellor probably won't be able to speak to her about you as it'll break patient confidentiallity. Check this out of course, it might be possible if you give them your permission but I doubt it.

I'd just tell her the basics. How long you've been doing it, etc. There's no need to give her any information you don't want to or get too personal.

[PassedExpectations]

keep in mind, she may already have had training that deals with this...

[Celticroots]

Thank you guys. I've been sick, so I haven't had a chance to talk with her about it. But I like the suggestions you guys gave me, especially the one about writing a letter.

Thank you. I'll tell you guys how it goes.

[PassedExpectations]

i hope that you're feeling better soon