Question. Is this the same?

[screamtobeheard]

Okay, so I haven't cut in probably a month. But lately, if I get really stressed out or upset, I'll slam my head against a wall. Or punch myself somewhere I know it will hurt. Or dig my fingernails into my skin until it leaves deep marks. Is this equivalent to what I was doing before?

[XxskatergirlxX]

yes it is. when i get mad i punch things, knock stuff over, scream or break things

[screamtobeheard]

Great. :/ And here I thought I was doing pretty well.

[Syvelocin]

Yeah, self-harm isn't just cutting. It's an umbrella term for any harm that you are inflicting purposefully. Main ones other than cutting include things like pulling out your hair, biting your fingernails to the quick, burning, picking at scabs, etc. I just ripped off a good piece of skin with my fingernails today during school. And though it isn't like the cuts on my arm, I still get to write it down in my journal =P

[Sith Lord 13]

Great. :/ And here I thought I was doing pretty well.

You are. You're making progress. That's what matters. Yes, you haven't kicked it completely. But your progress is good. Keep it up, and just keep moving forward.

[Atonement]

The fingernail idea is progress to me. Rather than needing to cut, leaving no marks and doing less damage only when you are "really upset" is good.

However, the slamming of the head is a BAD idea. Like, that can seriously cause permanent damage to your head. I do nooooooot recommend you continue this.

I do suggest taking an ice cube and squeezing it in your hand as hard as you can until it melts. It will be normal at first, but give it a try and it will give you a "painful" sensation that doesn't harm you.

[screamtobeheard]

Thanks everyone. You're all really helpful. :)