Self-Harm Worksheet

[xlaurenx]

1. List the ways that you self-harm <no tip sharing, be generic>
Cutting, Ods, punching
2. How do these behaviors help you survive?
Get my emotions out
3. How does this behavior give me a sense of control?
Sometimes
4. How/Why does this behavior release endorphins (the happy factor) and make me feel better?
Sometimes , it just does, if am upset.
5. How does this behavior give me revenge?
It doesn't
6. How does this behavior punish me?
Its just does sometimes
7. When and why did you start this behavior
I started at 7 as a one off then it was maybe 6 times a year from when i was 11-14 not severe at all, then 16 until now, started cos of stress and needed something to control

8. How/Why does this behavior bring me affection, care, or emotional closure? (How does it comfort you? if this applies)
Sometimes its a 'safety blanket' but nothing more

I hate myself
I want to distract myself from other pain
I want to numb my feelings
I am asking for help
I want to be rescued
I believe my body is a battleground
I am trying to express my pain
I am trying to bring my emotions under control
I am trying to prove that I am alive
I am trying to release emotional tension
I need a release valve
I am trying to buy myself time by focusing attention on physical rather than emotional pain

Now, think about your reason(s) for harming, list 3-5 things you could do instead.
1. Draw/ write/ read etc
2.Walk the dog
3. Right down my feelings
Call a friend

Which of the following are true for you? (Again delete the ones that do not apply for you)
If I don't hurt myself this way, my pain will be worse
I need to be punished for what I did
It just shows how bad a person I am
It keeps people away
The scars are there for a reason, they remind me of my shame/need for punishment


contemplation preparation bit of both,

laurenxx

[mollysaysrecover]

1. List the ways that you self-harm
Cutting.
2. How do these behaviors help you survive?
I don't know actually, it's become more of a routine. I guess it helps as i can physically feel the pain that i feel inside.
3. How does this behavior give me a sense of control?
Because i can do what i want, when i want, and the blade will obey me.
4. How/Why does this behavior release endorphins (the happy factor) and make me feel better?
It doesn't for me, I just feel more of failure when i cut as i know i shouldn't have done it.
5. How does this behavior give me revenge?
I feel like I'm hurting that person by hurting myself.
6. How does this behavior punish me?
It doesn't. I feel numb as i cut, then the pain floods in.
7. When and why did you start this behavior?
2008.
8. How/Why does this behavior bring me affection, care, or emotional closure? (How does it comfort you? if this applies)
I don't know, I can't think straight.

Copy and paste this section, delete the lines that do not apply to you, leaving only the ones that do:
I want to express my rage at myself
I hate myself
I want to distract myself from other pain
I want to numb my feelings
I am asking for help
I want to be rescued
I want to somehow atone for my sins
I want to express my shame
I am trying to express my pain
I am trying to bring my emotions under control
I am trying to prove that I am alive
I am trying to get "high"
I am trying to release emotional tension
I need to get into a "neutral zone"
I am trying to buy myself time by focusing attention on physical rather than emotional pain

Now, think about your reason(s) for harming, list 3-5 things you could do instead.
1. I guess i could make a scrapbook of my happy times.
2. Music, though it triggers me sometimes.
3. Busy myself; homework or talk to someone ect..

Which of the following are true for you? (Again delete the ones that do not apply for you)
Self-harm doesn't hurt anyone but me and it really doesn't hurt me either
It's my body, I can do what I want with it
No one knows about it anyways
I need to be punished for what I did
It just shows how bad a person I am
The scars are there for a reason, they remind me of my shame/need for punishment

Stage two. I'm not ready to stop, and I often wonder when I will be ready.

[hirple.]

1. List the ways that you self-harm <no tip sharing, be generic>
Cutting, dermatillomania, occasionally burning.
2. How do these behaviors help you survive?
...I suppose they provide feeling when I feel nothing, relief when I feel too much, grounding when I feel unreal and enough of a distraction so that I don't completely lose myself. It provides a focus when I can't focus myself or my thoughts.
3. How does this behavior give me a sense of control?
It once did, not so much anymore. I suppose I controlled when and where, but never anything else, and that's frightening, not relieving. Once I became aware that I was scaring myself and that was half the battle, I realised that the 'control' was nothing but making sure that I could make myself feel worse than anyone else ever could.
4. How/Why does this behavior release endorphins (the happy factor) and make me feel better?
Feel better, or just feel? It all depends. It never made me happy though, just provided a very temporary release from numbness and anger.
5. How does this behavior give me revenge?
I don't think it ever did. Perhaps it used to be a kick in the teeth for those who were supposed to be there for me, but that wasn't intentional 'revenge' as such, it was just an unfortunate side-effect of it all.
6. How does this behavior punish me?
I guess it punishes me because I feel that I'm not deserving of success without it being tarnished in some way, because I can't control the way I look in a better way and because it reminds me of how much I hate myself.
7. When and why did you start this behavior?
Long story. First memorable time was just before my 13th birthday when everything became too much.
8. How/Why does this behavior bring me affection, care, or emotional closure? (How does it comfort you? if this applies)
It's the only way that I really cared for myself, after the 'incidents', and I knew that I had something to fall back on. It never stopped being there when everyone else did.



I want to express my rage at myself
I hate myself
I want to distract myself from other pain
I want to numb my feelings
I want to somehow atone for my sins
I am trying to express my pain
I am retaliating against myself for telling secrets
I am trying to bring my emotions under control
I am trying to prove that I am alive
I am trying to get "high"
I am trying to release emotional tension
I need a release valve
I need to get into a "neutral zone"
I am trying to buy myself time by focusing attention on physical rather than emotional pain

Now, think about your reason(s) for harming, list 3-5 things you could do instead.
1. Walk.
2. Play guitar/piano.
3. Listen to music.
4. Talk.

Which of the following are true for you? (Again delete the ones that do not apply for you)
If I don't hurt myself this way, my pain will be worse
The scars are there for a reason, they remind me of my shame/need for punishment

[StaceyBee]

1. List the ways that you self-harm <no tip sharing, be generic>
Cutting myself
2. How do these behaviors help you survive?
It stops me from trying to kill myself
3. How does this behavior give me a sense of control?
I feel more in control of my feelings and my life
4. How/Why does this behavior release endorphins (the happy factor) and make me feel better?
It's my way of letting things out that are affecting me and I generally feel better after
5. How does this behavior give me revenge?
I don't really feel any revenge when I do it, just relief
6. How does this behavior punish me?
It makes me feel really bad about myself and I feel like I'm being dishonest to people when I'm hiding what I've done
7. When and why did you start this behavior?
I started doing it when I was 16 (so about 6 years ago) because I felt that no one was listening to me
8. How/Why does this behavior bring me affection, care, or emotional closure? (How does it comfort you? if this applies)
I don't really feel any comfort from it, more like guilty or condemned depending on who finds out about it

Copy and paste this section, delete the lines that do not apply to you, leaving only the ones that do:
I want to show that I own my body
I want to express my rage at myself
I hate myself
I want to distract myself from other pain
I want to numb my feelings
I want to cleanse myself
I am trying to express my pain
I am trying to bring my emotions under control
I am trying to release emotional tension
I need a release valve

Now, think about your reason(s) for harming, list 3-5 things you could do instead.
1. Talking to someone
2. Finding other things to do to distract me
3. Do something that I know will make me feel better

Which of the following are true for you? (Again delete the ones that do not apply for you)

It's my body, I can do what I want with it
If I don't hurt myself this way, my pain will be worse
It just shows how bad a person I am

FINALLY! I'm adding one more question to this list, what stage are you on in the 6 stages of recovery? (see hidden information for the stages and details of each)

I think at the moment I'm on Stage 2, although it changes all the time depending on what mood I'm in

[XxHopelesslyFallingxX]

List the ways that you self-harm ? Cutting, Scratching, sometimes burning, hitting
2. How do these behaviors help you survive? Make me feel in control of something in my life, helps me punish myself
3. How does this behavior give me a sense of control? I can control the pain.
4. How/Why does this behavior release endorphins (the happy factor) and make me feel better? It does a little...makes me feel able to at least last another day
5. How does this behavior give me revenge? It gives me a chance to inflict all the hate and pain onto myself and punish myself for the pain I cause. Lets me place revenge when I hate myself (hate myself all the time...)
6. How does this behavior punish me? Puts the pain I cause others onto myself
7. When and why did you start this behavior? Over a year ago...
8. How/Why does this behavior bring me affection, care, or emotional closure? (How does it comfort you? if this applies) It lets me cut away the badness in me..It lets me replace emotional pain with physical...and makes me feel better for a little while.

Copy and paste this section, delete the lines that do not apply to you, leaving only the ones that do:
I want to express my rage at myself
I hate myself
I want to distract myself from other pain
I want to numb my feelings
I have a message to give that I cant' say directly
I am asking for help
I want to be rescued
I want to cleanse myself
I want to express my shame
I am trying to express my pain
I am retaliating against myself for telling secrets
I am trying to bring my emotions under control
I am trying to prove that I am alive
I am trying to get "high"
I am trying to release emotional tension
I am trying to buy myself time by focusing attention on physical rather than emotional pain

Now, think about your reason(s) for harming, list 3-5 things you could do instead.
1. Talk to people... Let people in- Not bottle things up
2. Write songs/stories
3. Elastic band theory...?

Which of the following are true for you? (Again delete the ones that do not apply for you)
It's no big deal and shouldn't upset anyone
If I don't hurt myself this way, my pain will be worse
I need to be punished for what I did
It just shows how bad a person I am
The scars are there for a reason, they remind me of my shame/need for punishment

[deadlydackle]

1. List the ways that you self-harm
Cutting.
2. How do these behaviors help you survive?
urr, they don't tbh.
3. How does this behavior give me a sense of control?
i'm controlling how i'm hurting.
4. How/Why does this behavior release endorphins (the happy factor) and make me feel better?
I have no idea.
5. How does this behavior give me revenge?
nope
6. How does this behavior punish me?
it makes me physically hurt
7. When and why did you start this behavior?
when i was 11, because i had depression
8. How/Why does this behavior bring me affection, care, or emotional closure?
this sounds stupid, but it's like i'm looking after myself, i can control my emotions.


I hate myself
I want to distract myself from other pain
I want to numb my feelings
I am asking for help
I want to be rescued
I am trying to express my pain
I am trying to bring my emotions under control
I am trying to prove that I am alive
I am trying to get "high"
I am trying to manage my flashbacks/memories
I am trying to release emotional tension
I am trying to buy myself time by focusing attention on physical rather than emotional pain

Now, think about your reason(s) for harming, list 3-5 things you could do instead.
1. go for a run.
2. walk the dog
3. talk to mike.

Which of the following are true for you?
Self-harm doesn't hurt anyone but me and it really doesn't hurt me either
It's no big deal and shouldn't upset anyone
I need to be punished for what I did
It just shows how bad a person I am
The scars are there for a reason.


2.

[RadioActiveCheezPuff]

1. List the ways that you self-harm <no tip sharing, be generic>
Cutting
2. How do these behaviors help you survive?
Distract me from problems. Show me and the world I do struggle (even though they don't show)
3. How does this behavior give me a sense of control?
My mind is totally bent around the pain and blood
4. How/Why does this behavior release endorphins (the happy factor) and make me feel better?
I don't know.
5. How does this behavior give me revenge?
When I feel like something is my fault or I am mad, I can release the anger and feel it being released.
6. How does this behavior punish me?
I have scars and pain when I do it
7. When and why did you start this behavior?
Eighth grade with scratching. I really don't know why... I just... liked it...
8. How/Why does this behavior bring me affection, care, or emotional closure? (How does it comfort you? if this applies)
It just... releases the problem so I can face the situation or the next day's problems.

Copy and paste this section, delete the lines that do not apply to you,
I want to express my rage at myself
I hate myself
I want to distract myself from other pain
I want to numb my feelings
I have a message to give that I can't say directly
I am asking for help
I want to be rescued
I want to somehow atone for my sins
I want to express my shame
I am trying to express my pain
I am retaliating against myself for telling secrets
I am trying to bring my emotions under control
I am trying to prove that I am alive
I am trying to release emotional tension
I need a release valve
I am trying to buy myself time by focusing attention on physical rather than emotional pain

Now, think about your reason(s) for harming, list 3-5 things you could do instead.
1. Drawing or painting
2. Playing my guitar
3. Texting/ calling/ talking to someone

Which of the following are true for you? (Again delete the ones that do not apply for you)
Self-harm doesn't hurt anyone but me and it really doesn't hurt me either
It's no big deal and shouldn't upset anyone
If I don't hurt myself this way, my pain will be worse
No one knows about it anyways
I need to be punished for what I did
It just shows how bad a person I am

[xxemolollypopxx]

1. List the ways that you self-harm <no tip sharing, be generic>
cutting myself,anarexic
2. How do these behaviors help you survive?
It tells me that i am the only one who can hurt myself in that way
3. How does this behavior give me a sense of control?
I tell myself just how much I will hurt
4. How/Why does this behavior release endorphins (the happy factor) and make me feel better?
the pain of the day has been lifted for the moment that i bleed.
5. How does this behavior give me revenge?
If I am fat (wich I am) it is a punishment
6. How does this behavior punish me?
It is a way to get back at myself for the pain inside me
7. When and why did you start this behavior?
It started last mounth- I got into a BIG fight with a friend after a long, harsh, and bad day at school
8. How/Why does this behavior bring me affection, care, or emotional closure? (How does it comfort you? if this applies)
It tells me that even if I am alone I can punish myself for the way I am

Copy and paste this section, delete the lines that do not apply to you, leaving only the ones that do:
I want to show that I own my body
I want to express my rage at myself
I want to distract myself from other pain

I want to express my shame
I am trying to express my pain
I am trying to bring my emotions under control
I am trying to prove that I am alive
I am trying to buy myself time by focusing attention on physical rather than emotional pain

Now, think about your reason(s) for harming, list 3-5 things you could do instead.
1. Run
2. Do my homework
3. Take controol of my fellings

Which of the following are true for you? (Again delete the ones that do not apply for you)
Self-harm doesn't hurt anyone but me and it really doesn't hurt me either
It's my body, I can do what I want with it
It's no big deal and shouldn't upset anyone
If I don't hurt myself this way, my pain will be worse
The scars are there for a reason, they remind me of my shame/need for punishment



I am in stage 2

[flawedinsomniac]

1. List the ways that you self-harm <no tip sharing, be generic>
Just cutting, really. I guess I have disordered eating habits as well, and occasionally I've purposely deprived myself of sleep, food, water, and warmth while avoiding cutting, but I don't do that sort of thing often.

2. How do these behaviors help you survive?
I don't know. They don't.

3. How does this behavior give me a sense of control?
It lets me know that I'm aware of my life and what I'm doing and that I'm adequately punishing myself.

4. How/Why does this behavior release endorphins (the happy factor) and make me feel better?
It usually doesn't.

5. How does this behavior give me revenge?
It doesn't.

6. How does this behavior punish me?
It lets me know when I've ****ed up.

7. When and why did you start this behavior?
When: nearly 6 years ago. Why: I don't know.

8. How/Why does this behavior bring me affection, care, or emotional closure? (How does it comfort you? if this applies)
It doesn't.

Copy and paste this section, delete the lines that do not apply to you, leaving only the ones that do:
I want to express my rage at myself
I hate myself
I want to numb my feelings
I want to somehow atone for my sins
I want to express my shame
I am trying to bring my emotions under control
I am trying to release emotional tension
I need a release valve
I need to get into a "neutral zone"

Now, think about your reason(s) for harming, list 3-5 things you could do instead.
1. I could write it out.
2. I could go for a walk and listen to music and just think rationally about it.
3. I could take a nap.

Which of the following are true for you? (Again delete the ones that do not apply for you)
Self-harm doesn't hurt anyone but me and it really doesn't hurt me either
It's my body, I can do what I want with it
It's no big deal and shouldn't upset anyone
No one knows about it anyways
I need to be punished for what I did
It just shows how bad a person I am
It keeps people away
The scars are there for a reason, they remind me of my shame/need for punishment

FINALLY! I'm adding one more question to this list, what stage are you on in the 6 stages of recovery? (see hidden information for the stages and details of each)
Hmm...stage three, maybe.

[josiedoodle]

1. List the ways that you self-harm <no tip sharing, be generic>
cut: arms legs(everywere) and stomache. aswell as injesting chemicals
2. How do these behaviors help you survive?
lessons thought and intent of suiside and relaxes me
3. How does this behavior give me a sense of control?
my behaiveur puts me in pain so i can deel with it better when it is real
4. How/Why does this behavior release endorphins (the happy factor) and make me feel better?
the pain makes me feel equal again and brings me up toa better standerd
5. How does this behavior give me revenge?
everytime i do something wrong at all i have to if not i take stupider and stupider risks until i am satisfied
6. How does this behavior punish me?
the pain and the constant monororing my scars
7. When and why did you start this behavior?
about a year and a half ago but always felt a need to self distruct



I want to show that I own my body
I want to express my rage at myself
I hate myself
I want to distract myself from other pain

I am asking for help
I want to be rescued
I believe my body is a battleground
I want to cleanse myself
I want to somehow atone for my sins
I want to express my shame
I am retaliating against myself for telling secrets
I am trying to bring my emotions under control
I am trying to prove that I am alive
I am trying to get "high"
I am trying to manage my flashbacks/memories
I am trying to release emotional tension
I need a release valve
I need to get into a "neutral zone"
I am trying to buy myself time by focusing attention on physical rather than emotional pain

Now, think about your reason(s) for harming, list 3-5 things you could do instead.
1.doodleing/drawing/write
2.exersise
3.talk

Which of the following are true for you? (Again delete the ones that do not apply for you)
Self-harm doesn't hurt anyone but me and it really doesn't hurt me either
It's my body, I can do what I want with it
It's no big deal and shouldn't upset anyone
If I don't hurt myself this way, my pain will be worse
I need to be punished for what I did
It keeps people away
The scars are there for a reason, they remind me of my shame/need for punishment

[JumpingJellytots.xD]

1. List the ways that you self-harm <no tip sharing, be generic>
Burning, Head Banging, Scratching.
2. How do these behaviors help you survive?
They help to put my emotional pain into physical pain which i can deal with.
3. How does this behavior give me a sense of control?
It lets me know that its something that noone can control and tell me when and how to do it, thats upto me.
4. How/Why does this behavior release endorphins (the happy factor) and make me feel better?
The pain and stinging enables me to feel that i have won a battle, one that noone can do for me.
5. How does this behavior give me revenge?
It doesnt, it allows me to hurt myself for all the stuff that i feel guilty for.
6. How does this behavior punish me?
It inflicts pain which i can deal with.
7. When and why did you start this behavior?
6 months ago.
8. How/Why does this behavior bring me affection, care, or emotional closure? (How does it comfort you? if this applies)
It doesnt do any of these things.

I want to show that I own my body
I want to express my rage at myself
I hate myself
I want to distract myself from other pain
I want to numb my feelings
I have a message to give that I cant' say directly
I believe my body is a battleground
I want to somehow atone for my sins
I want to express my shame
I am trying to express my pain
I am taking over where my abuser left off
I am trying to bring my emotions under control
I am trying to prove that I am alive
I am trying to release emotional tension
I need a release valve
I am trying to buy myself time by focusing attention on physical rather than emotional pain

Now, think about your reason(s) for harming, list 3-5 things you could do instead.
1. Poetry
2. Drawing
3. Painting with dull colours to express my feelings

Which of the following are true for you? (Again delete the ones that do not apply for you)
Self-harm doesn't hurt anyone but me and it really doesn't hurt me either
It's my body, I can do what I want with it
It's no big deal and shouldn't upset anyone
If I don't hurt myself this way, my pain will be worse
I need to be punished for what I did
It just shows how bad a person I am
The scars are there for a reason, they remind me of my shame/need for punishment

FINALLY! I'm adding one more question to this list, what stage are you on in the 6 stages of recovery? (see hidden information for the stages and details of each)
Pre-contemplation

[taz35]

1. List the ways that you self-harm <no tip sharing, be generic>
Cutting, hitting
2. How do these behaviors help you survive?
Sense of control and release of emotion.
3. How does this behavior give me a sense of control?
You can control every aspect of it at your own leisure.
4. How/Why does this behavior release endorphins (the happy factor) and make me feel better?
It releases everything, offers an escape, feels like the pain/whatever emotions are bottled up all get released.
5. How does this behavior give me revenge?
Shows that no matter how much people try to hurt me, they can't hurt me as bad as I hurt myself. Not that they would know, of course. It's hidden after all.
6. How does this behavior punish me?
Scars, having to always cover them up and worry about who might see/question it.
7. When and why did you start this behavior?
6 years ago (beginning of grade 9), stress I think.
8. How/Why does this behavior bring me affection, care, or emotional closure? (How does it comfort you? if this applies)
Sense of relief... that's really all I have to say.

Copy and paste this section, delete the lines that do not apply to you, leaving only the ones that do:
I want to express my rage at myself
I hate myself [sometimes]
I want to distract myself from other pain
I want to numb my feelings
I have a message to give that I can't say directly
I want to be rescued
I am trying to express my pain
I am trying to bring my emotions under control
I am trying to prove that I am alive
I am trying to manage my flashbacks/memories
I am trying to release emotional tension
I need a release valve
I need to get into a "neutral zone"

Now, think about your reason(s) for harming, list 3-5 things you could do instead.
1. play hockey, or even simpler - shoot pucks in the garage
2. study so that I can pass the next exam/essay and reduce the stress.
3. listen to music, or read.

Which of the following are true for you? (Again delete the ones that do not apply for you)
Self-harm doesn't hurt anyone but me and it really doesn't hurt me either
It's my body, I can do what I want with it
It's no big deal and shouldn't upset anyone
It keeps people away
The scars are there for a reason, they remind me of my shame/need for punishment

FINALLY! I'm adding one more question to this list, what stage are you on in the 6 stages of recovery? (see hidden information for the stages and details of each)
3, if anything... but I don't know if I'm ready to stop.

[Plural]

1. List the ways that you self-harm - Cutting, burning
2. How do these behaviors help you survive? They help me cope
3. How does this behavior give me a sense of control? I am in control of how much pain I recieve
4. How/Why does this behavior release endorphins (the happy factor) and make me feel better? I don't know...
5. How does this behavior give me revenge? revenge on myself for being such a failure
6. How does this behavior punish me? see above
7. When and why did you start this behavior? when I was 11, because of abuse.


I want to show that I own my body
I want to express my rage at myself
I hate myself
I want to distract myself from other pain
I want to numb my feelings
I want to cleanse myself
I am trying to express my pain
I am taking over where my abuser left off
I am retaliating against myself for telling secrets
I am doing what my abuser brainwashed me to do, if I told
I am trying to bring my emotions under control
I am trying to prove that I am alive
I am trying to manage my flashbacks/memories
I am trying to release emotional tension
I am trying to buy myself time by focusing attention on physical rather than emotional pain


Self-harm doesn't hurt anyone but me and it really doesn't hurt me either
It's my body, I can do what I want with it
It's no big deal and shouldn't upset anyone
If I don't hurt myself this way, my pain will be worse
No one knows about it anyways
I need to be punished for what I did
It just shows how bad a person I am
It keeps people away
The scars are there for a reason, they remind me of my shame/need for punishment

[Annaberry]

1. List the ways that you self-harm <no tip sharing, be generic>

• Cutting
• Scratching
• More recently burning

2. How do these behaviors help you survive?

• At this point I do it because I love the pain
• Feeling of release
• Calms me

3. How does this behavior give me a sense of control?

• I am the one making the pain, not the external factor thats made me upset

4. How/Why does this behavior release endorphins (the happy factor) and make me feel better?

• Stress and pain are the two most common factors leading to the release of endorphins. Endorphins interact with the opiate receptors in the brain to reduce our perception of pain and act similarly to drugs such as morphine and codeine.

5. How does this behavior give me revenge?

• It doesn't

6. How does this behavior punish me?

• If I've done something stupid or hurt someone then I also deserve to hurt.

7. When and why did you start this behavior?

• When I was 11, because I was getting bullied

8. How/Why does this behavior bring me affection, care, or emotional closure? (How does it comfort you? if this applies)

• The release physical pain lets me feel like the emotional pain is being released and escaping my body.

I want to express my rage at myself
I want to distract myself from other pain
I have a message to give that I cant' say directly
I want to be rescued
I want to cleanse myself
I am trying to express my pain
I am trying to bring my emotions under control
I am trying to get "high"
I am trying to release emotional tension
I need a release valve
I need to get into a "neutral zone"

Now, think about your reason(s) for harming, list 3-5 things you could do instead.
1. Read/add to my scrap book
2. Rip stuff
3. Hit pillows

If I don't hurt myself this way, my pain will be worse
No one knows about it anyways
I need to be punished for what I did
The scars are there for a reason, they remind me of my shame/need for punishment

FINALLY! I'm adding one more question to this list, what stage are you on in the 6 stages of recovery? (see hidden information for the stages and details of each)

In between stages 3 & 4

[BrokenButStillBreathing]

1. List the ways that you self-harm <no tip sharing, be generic>
Cutting. Stratching. Pinching.
2. How do these behaviors help you survive?
Control and release of the feelings that are stopping me living my life.
3. How does this behavior give me a sense of control?
It's monitored. I say how far is too far. No outside forces affect how much it hurts. Only me.
4. How/Why does this behavior release endorphins (the happy factor) and make me feel better?
It shouldn't. But it just makes me smile. I feel relieved.
5. How does this behavior give me revenge?
It's not revenge. I've never viewed it like that.
6. How does this behavior punish me?
It doesn't.
7. When and why did you start this behavior?
I don't remember. I didn't realise until recently that scratching until my skin was sore was self harm, and I've been doing that for as long as I can remember.
8. How/Why does this behavior bring me affection, care, or emotional closure? (How does it comfort you? if this applies)
It does, but I don't know why. It's hardly logical. I just know that I feel better, calmer afterwards. Especially if there is some lasting proof.

Copy and paste this section, delete the lines that do not apply to you, leaving only the ones that do:

I want to express my rage at myself
I hate myself
I want to distract myself from other pain
I want to numb my feelings
I have a message to give that I cant' say directly
I want to be rescued
I want to somehow atone for my sins
I want to express my shame
I am trying to express my pain
I am retaliating against myself for telling secrets
I am trying to bring my emotions under control
I am trying to prove that I am alive
I am trying to release emotional tension
I need a release valve
I need to get into a "neutral zone"


Now, think about your reason(s) for harming, list 3-5 things you could do instead.
1. Appear online on MSN and talk to someone
2. Read a book
3. Watch TV

Which of the following are true for you? (Again delete the ones that do not apply for you)

Self-harm doesn't hurt anyone but me and it really doesn't hurt me either
It's my body, I can do what I want with it
It's no big deal and shouldn't upset anyone
If I don't hurt myself this way, my pain will be worse
No one knows about it anyways
It just shows how bad a person I am
The scars are there for a reason, they remind me of my shame

FINALLY! I'm adding one more question to this list, what stage are you on in the 6 stages of recovery? (see hidden information for the stages and details of each)

Two I think. I know that I should make changes, because it's not healthy to carry on in this mindset. But I can't find the motivation to.. Don't feel like I could if I wanted to either.

[whispering girl]

1. List the ways that you self-harm
skin picking, biting
2. How do these behaviors help you survive?
need something else to focus on aside from my past
3. How does this behavior give me a sense of control?
i can do it anywhere and anytime and noone can stop me unless i want
to stop
4. How/Why does this behavior release endorphins (the happy factor) and
make me feel better?
i don't know/it just does
5. How does this behavior give me revenge?
it gives me revenge on myself
6. How does this behavior punish me?
it causes me pain like my parents did when i was bad
7. When and why did you start this behavior?
started in preschool as something to help me keep my mouth shut so i wouldn't get more abuse for what i say
8. How/Why does this behavior bring me affection, care, or emotional closure? (How does it comfort you? if this applies)
it doesn't


I want to show that I own my body
I want to express my rage at myself
I hate myself
I want to distract myself from other pain
I want to numb my feelings
I have a message to give that I cant' say directly
I am asking for help
I want to be rescued
I believe my body is a battleground
I want to cleanse myself
I am trying to express my pain
I am taking over where my abuser left off
I am retaliating against myself for telling secrets
I am doing what my abuser brainwashed me to do, if I told
I am trying to bring my emotions under control
I am trying to prove that I am alive
I am trying to manage my flashbacks/memories
I am trying to release emotional tension
I am trying to buy myself time by focusing attention on physical rather than emotional pain

Now, think about your reason(s) for harming, list 3-5 things you could do instead.
1.writing
2.randomly look up things on the internet to distract myself
3.homework

Which of the following are true for you?
Self-harm doesn't hurt anyone but me and it really doesn't hurt me either
It's my body, I can do what I want with it
It's no big deal and shouldn't upset anyone
If I don't hurt myself this way, my pain will be worse
I need to be punished for what I did

FINALLY! I'm adding one more question to this list, what stage are you on in the 6 stages of recovery? (see hidden information for the stages and details of each)
around stage 2 or 3

[emmahickie21]

1. List the ways that you self-harm <no tip sharing, be generic>

cutting bitting nails and the skin bitting the skin in my month hitting myself staving my self or over eatting

2. How do these behaviors help you survive?

makes me feel in contral of my life and it makes feel like i like have been punshed eough

3. How does this behavior give me a sense of control?

not sure

4. How/Why does this behavior release endorphins (the happy factor) and make me feel better?

it does not it make me happy foe a few mins then i feel angy

5. How does this behavior give me revenge?

it dont
6. How does this behavior punish me?
dont no

7. When and why did you start this behavior?
2005 lots of prombles

8. How/Why does this behavior bring me affection, care, or emotional closure? (How does it comfort you? if this applies)
make me feels better as i have been pushed for wot i dun worng

Copy and paste this section, delete the lines that do not apply to you, leaving only the ones that do:
I want to express my rage at myself
I hate myself
I want to distract myself from other pain
I want to numb my feelings
I am asking for help
I want to be rescued
I want to cleanse myself
I want to express my shame
I am trying to express my pain
I am taking over where my abuser left off
I am doing what my abuser brainwashed me to do, if I told
I am trying to bring my emotions under control
I am trying to manage my flashbacks/memories
I am trying to release emotional tension
I need to get into a "neutral zone"

Now, think about your reason(s) for harming, list 3-5 things you could do instead.
1.write a letter
2.tell someone
3.

Which of the following are true for you? (Again delete the ones that do not apply for you)
It's my body, I can do what I want with it
If I don't hurt myself this way, my pain will be worse
No one knows about it anyways
I need to be punished for what I did
It just shows how bad a person I am
The scars are there for a reason, they remind me of my shame/need for punishment

stage 2

[Freedom Fighter]

1. List the ways that you self-harm
Burn, cut, bruise, binge, picking scabs
2. How do these behaviors help you survive?
No clue
3. How does this behavior give me a sense of control?
I can be the master of my own emotions
4. How/Why does this behavior release endorphins (the happy factor) and make me feel better?
It hurts
5. How does this behavior give me revenge?
No clue
6. How does this behavior punish me?
For failing
7. When and why did you start this behavior?

Cut: Fall of 2007
Burn: 2008
Bruise: 2008
Binge: As far back as I can remember
Skin Picking: summer of 2009

8. How/Why does this behavior bring me affection, care, or emotional closure? (How does it comfort you? if this applies)
It feels good

Copy and paste this section, delete the lines that do not apply to you, leaving only the ones that do:
I want to express my rage at myself
I hate myself
I want to distract myself from other pain
I want to numb my feelings
I have a message to give that I cant' say directly
I am asking for help
I want to be rescued
I am trying to express my pain
I am trying to bring my emotions under control
I am trying to get "high"
I am trying to release emotional tension
I need a release valve
I need to get into a "neutral zone"
I am trying to buy myself time by focusing attention on physical rather than emotional pain

Now, think about your reason(s) for harming, list 3-5 things you could do instead.
1. My Grades Suck at the moment
2. My self worth is wrapped up in them
3. This makes me think I am a failure

Which of the following are true for you? (Again delete the ones that do not apply for you)
It's my body, I can do what I want with it
It's no big deal and shouldn't upset anyone
If I don't hurt myself this way, my pain will be worse
It keeps people away

FINALLY! I'm adding one more question to this list, what stage are you on in the 6 stages of recovery? (see hidden information for the stages and details of each)
6 TBH

[samshine]

1. List the ways that you self-harm <no tip sharing, be generic>
Cutting
Burning
Hair pulling
ODing
2. How do these behaviors help you survive?
They distract me from bad memories and more serious urges
They bring me back to reality if I'm feeling disconnected
3. How does this behavior give me a sense of control?
The past hurts were out of my control but self harm is completely in my control, the severity, method etc. It allows me to regain my composure if my emotions start controlling me.
4. How/Why does this behavior release endorphins (the happy factor) and make me feel better?
I think it's just a chemical thing, I guess I'm just wired wrong. I guess it
is a physical representation of my emotional pain.
5. How does this behavior give me revenge?
I don't think it does, the person that suffers the most is still me.
6. How does this behavior punish me?
By giving me a permanent reminder of my faults and regrets.
7. When and why did you start this behavior?
I started when I was 13 and things were really tough at home. My mum was in hospital for depression and her ED, my dad was active in his alcoholism and my sister was raped.
8. How/Why does this behavior bring me affection, care, or emotional closure? (How does it comfort you? if this applies)
The action feels like a huge emotional relief, the blood gives me a rush and the pain brings me back to reality.

Copy and paste this section, delete the lines that do not apply to you, leaving only the ones that do:

I want to distract myself from other pain
I am asking for help
I believe my body is a battleground
I want to somehow atone for my sins
I am trying to express my pain
I am trying to bring my emotions under control
I am trying to prove that I am alive
I am trying to manage my flashbacks/memories
I am trying to release emotional tension


Now, think about your reason(s) for harming, list 3-5 things you could do instead.
1. Listen to music
2. Journal
3. Play video games

Which of the following are true for you? (Again delete the ones that do not apply for you)

It's my body, I can do what I want with it
If I don't hurt myself this way, my pain will be worse
It just shows how bad a person I am
The scars are there for a reason, they remind me of my shame/need for punishment

I am currently at stage 6

[makedamnsure]

1. List the ways that you self-harm <no tip sharing, be generic>
Cutting,
Occasionally burning,
Hitting (but I dont bruise very easy so its not much satisfaction)
Interfering with wound healing,

2. How do these behaviors help you survive?
Release stress. Punish myself. Calm me down when things get mental.
3. How does this behavior give me a sense of control?
I choose to do it. I feel powerful because I can hurt myself, deliberately, when a lot of people are scared of pain.
4. How/Why does this behavior release endorphins (the happy factor) and make me feel better?
It calms down racing thoughts, provides a "shock" back to reality
5. How does this behavior give me revenge?
It shows the world that I am not as ok as I seem (even though I don't show anyone the cuts).
6. How does this behavior punish me?
I hate myself and damaging my body feels like I am recieving the punishment I deserve for being angry/upset. It also reinforces the belief that no-one can love me because I am such a bad person, and making myself ugly on the outside is like a warning to others to stay away.
7. When and why did you start this behavior?
I started about 10 years ago. Because after an argument with my mum I was angry and hit something and the pain brought me back down. I started scratching after I saw a lad at school do it and get attention for it but I never got attention because I didn't show anyone. That progressed to cutting.
8. How/Why does this behavior bring me affection, care, or emotional closure? (How does it comfort you? if this applies)
I think I sort of do it for attention sometimes, wanting someone to notice and give me that affection and care. But afterwards I can't show them anyway so I don't get the care I was craving. I don't really care for myself/my wounds. It is comforting to me when I am feeling out of control.

Copy and paste this section, delete the lines that do not apply to you, leaving only the ones that do:

I want to express my rage at myself
I hate myself
I have a message to give that I cant' say directly
I am asking for help
I want to be rescued
I want to somehow atone for my sins
I am trying to bring my emotions under control

Now, think about your reason(s) for harming, list 3-5 things you could do instead.
1. Walk the dogs
2. Have a shower
3 Watch a film

Which of the following are true for you? (Again delete the ones that do not apply for you)
It's my body, I can do what I want with it
It's no big deal and shouldn't upset anyone
It just shows how bad a person I am
The scars are there for a reason, they remind me of my shame/need for punishment

FINALLY! I'm adding one more question to this list, what stage are you on in the 6 stages of recovery? varies between 3 and 6