a question?

[Jo1]

For about a month now i have been wearing an elastic band, and been using that when i feel i want to self-harm. Apparently if u use it a lot, you are a risk of bruising so it should be done in moderation. I have been using it quite a bit, when feeling low. I did it quite a lot yesterday, and have a bit of swelling where I have been hitting myself is this normal to get this?and is this Ok? It doesnt hurt or anything, but i can feel the swelling. Have any other of you experienced this when using this method?
thanks

 

[bubblefish]

It is great that you are not cutting at all, but would it be possible not to rely on the elastic band as much? It probably isn't too much to worry about but could get worse if you use the band too much.

Maybe try to put some other coping strategies in place as well. Something like ice or even something that might help to relax you - walking, writing, reading. Have the elastic band as a fall-back but try to put other methods in place as well that don't have any risk of hurting you?

You are doing great Hun! Don't give up!

 

[TheMainException]

Hey, good job, first off...a month of not cutting is good. This method seems to be one that works the best for a lot of people. But I recommend getting as many other coping methods going as you can. Before using the rubber band, try writing about what you are feeling, or drawing it out (I know, you're 35, what's with drawing right? It's even better for people more removed from their childhood because it can help you tap into something you may have forgotten). Try different styles, crayons, markers, paint, clay. Create your pain in that medium. Draw your anger, sadness, depression...give it life outside of yourself in a different way than giving pain to your body. Just like cutting, try to hold off on using the rubber band as much as possible. Do other things that make you happy and take your mind off of it...if you focus on it, the urge will grow...like if you are on a long car trip and you have to go to the bathroom REAAAALLY bad...the more you think about it, the worse it gets, but if you focus on counting or reading a book, it can go away a little bit and not be so much of a painful urge.

A few months ago, I was in the car on my way to the airport to go to germany for the semester (where I am now). I was terribly anxious and hadn't slept well for weeks. the few nights before were terrible sleep. I was really anxious in the car and just started counting. Around 300, I started getting into a zone...it was almost like a trance. I was so tired and the counting so side tracking that I really started to relax. I was focusing so hard on the numbers and counting in rhythm that I just zoned out. It was awesome. I recommend it. Just close your eyes and start counting...focus on rhythm and the numbers and just go.

 

[Jo1]

ThanksIm still using the elastic band a lot. It worries me ive got myself in this state really. I havent got to the point yet, where Im I can stop using it. Having more counselling next year.