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BunniekinsSenior Contributor
intrusive thoughts of self harm. the need is strong today. i have been told they are just intrusive thoughts ... many people have them .... the difference is when you act upon them. i did once. the voice in the computer telling me what to do. i still have one scar. it is small. oh god there are more though. still small. this is helping though just saying blah on the sane discussion board.
In response to: overwhelming need to self harm
Nala2022Moderator
Hi @Bunniekins, I’m glad you’ve reached out and shared what’s going on. It sounds like today has been really difficult with the self-harm thoughts feeling so strong
You mentioned that you have acted on these thoughts before, so I just wanted to check in, are you safe right now, and do you feel able to keep yourself safe today?
If the urge becomes harder to manage, please reach out for some extra support rather than sitting with it alone. You can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467, both available 24/7. If you feel you may act on the urge or are in immediate danger, please call 000 or go to your nearest emergency department
You might also find it helpful to create a safety plan for when these thoughts become strong. Beyond Now is a free safety-planning app that can help you identify warning signs, coping strategies and people you can reach out to when you’re struggling.
For now, keep taking things one moment at a time and be gentle with yourself. You don’t have to work everything out today 💛
In response to: overwhelming need to self harm
RadderSenior Contributor
Hi @Bunniekins,
Perhaps these may help you get through when the waves of intrusive thoughts come:
You are not alone - this community is here for you, and you can also speak to a peer who has similar experiences via https://rosesintheocean.com.au/sector-priorities-collaborations/peer-care-companion-warmline/
If you are comfortable, could you please clarify if you are actually hearing voices? If so, can also provide you with peer support links from the Hearing Voices community.
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Help us push aside the stigma and discrimination surrounding complex mental health and change the way people talk about, and care for, mental illness.
SANE acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.
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