Ways to Cope??

[xXoblivionXx]

I need to stop cutting and I haven't cut for almost 2 days now. There are times where I feel that I really need to cut, I need a way to cope that will have an equivalent effect as cutting but something that doesn't involve self harm or anything bad.

[Desuetude]

Different things work for different people you might have to try a few before you find what's right for you. Im not sure what you could do to get a similar effect but when you get the urge you could o for a walk/run, write down how you feel, turn headphones right up, draw on yourself instead of cut, snap an elastic band, do some intense excersize, keep busy (even messing up your room then make yourself tidy it so you have something to do can help).

Also ways to keep you from cutting, have you tried the butterfly project? You draw butterflys on the places you usually cut and give it the name of someone that means something to you, hopefully it will urge you not to cut. Also keep count of the days because every single day without it is an achievement, you could cross off on a calender or get a bracelet/necklace and add a bead to it every day you don't cut. You could make non-cutting day beads orange and if you slip up you could add a white one then get back on track. Wear bands around your wrist reminding you of the reasons you want to stop. There are so many different ways that could help.
I hope these gave you a few ideas and I just want to say congratulations that you want to try and quit. Vt is here for you every step of the way :)

[FullyAlive]

each person will have their own preferred way to cope you just need to find yours. I've used various ways elastic bands, ice and pens are popular methods. As are distractions such as drawing, music, writing, reading, walking/running etc. I've also gone through phases of writing a diary, I've recently started again. I also like to put on an old pair of tights and just rip them to shreds.. And for a couple of mouths or so I've hidden my blades at the bottom of a box full of things from people I love or that remind of people I love. Sometimes it works and makes me stop other times it doesn't.

So yeah there's a lot of things out there, you could try googling self harm coping methods, just don't give up at the first hurdle some will not work for you but you can find others that do. Good luck :-)


edit: yeah just seen Nikki's post she covered must of these but meh

[xXoblivionXx]

Thanks guys it helped to see my options. And Nikki I have heard of the butterfly project my friend, a former cutter, use to do that to help her stop but i wasn't so sure it would work for me. But thanks for the replies :)

[MemoriesLost]

What I do is try to walk in the woods with my music blasted up so it's just me, the trees, and the music. It helps me put my thoughts in order and calm down a bit. It brings me into a sort of serenity bubble. You should try it. Sometimes, if the urge is maddeningly strong, I cut, though. I hope you find a way that helps you.