Got this text off an old RYL page :
Creating a 'Happy Box'
A happy box is a simple idea which can become a useful tool in destroying the urge to self injure. It works on the premiss that having a collection of things that make the individual happy or act as a reminder of better times can both reduce the immediate urge to SI and act as an aid in stopping using SI all together.
It has become apparent that many who self injure keep a box containing 'tools' and destructive objects. This acts as a major obstacle in trying to successfully stop as when the urge to self injure presents itself, it is this self destructive tool kit which is often the first thing to hand and therefore becomes the individuals first and apparently only option.
The 'happy box' uses this idea to it's advantage. This becomes the first thing available and hopefully removes the idea that self injury is the only option.
Suggestions for things to include:
-Photographs- These could be of loved ones, memorable times or even just random pieces.
-Ticket stubs-from gigs,concerts,movies, play's etc-whatever the interest these act as a reminder of the things that are enjoyed
-A collection of inspirational quotes, poetry or lyrics.
The list is endless, each individual will have different things that make them happy, the trick is to find things that are helpful in any positive way and include them. The collection may begin slowly and with a little amount of things included but in time it will grow. This is one of the idea's many positive outcomes. The fuller the box becomes of objects which both symbolize and induce happiness hopefully the more the individual realizes that their life is full of happy things.
Hope that's of interest :)
Harley
