Trying Not To Flush 24 Days

[Yugen]

I've been self harm free for 24 days now. (Yay?!)
But it doesn't feel as much of an accomplishment as it should.
So what I haven't hurt myself physically, but my brain has been killing me inside. I haven't been able to function properly. I have so many issues trying to deal with simple daily tasks. But when I self harm I can at least get through the day.
The urge is getting too strong and I'm starting to think it's not worth it anymore.
Does anyone have any ideas on what I can do to try and not break it? Like anything that helps when the urge is so strong? The usual things like taking a bath or reading aren't helping at all, and it's very cold here so anything outside is ruled out.

[Tarannosaurus]

:hug: that's a great accomplishment :) You are probably stronger than you think, what you need to do is find a way to release the urge rather than bottling it up. I recommend running, writing, shouting, singing, art or whatever else works for you. You probably won't like this but if you feel the urge is getting too strong, that's the time to think of going to a doctor. Don't let it overwhelm you, remember that you really can get better from this. Good luck :hug:

[Yugen]

:hug: that's a great accomplishment :) You are probably stronger than you think, what you need to do is find a way to release the urge rather than bottling it up. I recommend running, writing, shouting, singing, art or whatever else works for you. You probably won't like this but if you feel the urge is getting too strong, that's the time to think of going to a doctor. Don't let it overwhelm you, remember that you really can get better from this. Good luck :hug:

I really appreciate all your suggestions, including the doctor part. I've never thought of considering having a conversation with one about it, I've just automatically assumed that the only time you really need to seek medical attention is when you're suicidal. It would definitely be something to bring up.

[myfoodisnotshared]

Have you tried indoor exercise? Not exactly fun to look forwards to, but really intense work outs in short bursts can be super good for you and they get out all your pent up emotions. They don't occupy your time exactly, but they can give you a purpose.

I agree with Tarannosaurus - you're much stronger than you think, but that doesn't mean you can go it alone. Doctors are great, as are charities such as Samaritans, and they're there for you at any time. You're sixteen so as long as the Irish law is the same as the UK one, they can't legally tell your parents that you've booked an appointment or who you're seeing or anything.

And, of course, forums are good too:-)

[ImagineRepublicCity]

Listening to music and singing loudly is really good. Breathe slowly as well. I know it sounds lame, but sometimes I do that for a bit and I feel a bit better. You probably want to vent out that emotion so punching pillows, writing letters to yourself (ending it off positively) and just talking it out with a mate or someone is good.
So yes, just some things which work for me/have been recommended to me.

[Yugen]

Have you tried indoor exercise? Not exactly fun to look forwards to, but really intense work outs in short bursts can be super good for you and they get out all your pent up emotions. They don't occupy your time exactly, but they can give you a purpose.

I agree with Tarannosaurus - you're much stronger than you think, but that doesn't mean you can go it alone. Doctors are great, as are charities such as Samaritans, and they're there for you at any time. You're sixteen so as long as the Irish law is the same as the UK one, they can't legally tell your parents that you've booked an appointment or who you're seeing or anything.

And, of course, forums are good too:-)

I exercise a lot, multiple times a week. Honestly it just makes me feel isolated. But maybe I could find exercise buddies. Thanks for the idea. :)
And I'm not Irish, nor sixteen, but Tarannosaurus does have a really good point that I'll look in to.

Listening to music and singing loudly is really good. Breathe slowly as well. I know it sounds lame, but sometimes I do that for a bit and I feel a bit better. You probably want to vent out that emotion so punching pillows, writing letters to yourself (ending it off positively) and just talking it out with a mate or someone is good.
So yes, just some things which work for me/have been recommended to me.

Thanks for the ideas! Music isn't my thing in all honesty. I think too deeply about the lyrics, even when I sing along.
I didn't think about breathing exercises, so thanks for the advice! I often use that technique when I'm anxious, it'd probably be beneficial in these situations as well.
:D