Everyone who knows that I cut usually thinks that I’m doing it for attention. I don’t know how to convince them that I do not do this for attention. I do this because it helps me when I’m depressed and have no one to talk to. I have no friends, no support systems and no way to help me with my depression. What should I do? If I wanted to kill myself would that be for attention too? I can never win with my family. No matter what I do, it’s for attention.
CONSIDER THIS:
- Self harm can make you feel unhappy and alone. You are strong for enduring your struggles without help even though you’re constantly mistreated.
- Self harm is an issue which should always be taken seriously by family, friends and everyone. It can even lead to suicide. You can head to the Teen Central website and click the Help tab then call one of the hotlines to speak to someone. You can also speak to a trusted therapist, school counselor or religious leader about your issues.
- Knowledge is power. On the Teen Central website click the Learn tab then Depression, Self Injury and Suicide to read more about these issues. The Tools tab has several downloadable resources for positivity, mood and social skills among others.
- Even though your family likely cares a lot about you, family doesn’t always make good friends. You can find real, genuine friends by being yourself, patient and positive. If your family only brings you down it may be best to stay away from them as often as possible by spending time at your local park, library, or join a club or sports team.
- Another way to possibly find real friends and be positive is by volunteering. Some charities include Habitat for Humanity, Meals on Wheels, The American Red Cross, a soup kitchen or local pet shelter. Whether you’re helping children, the environment or donating your artistic skills, there’s a charity that needs your talent to help those less fortunate. You can even consider fostering or adopting a pet to give and receive unconditional love. Volunteering can also help you know how unselfish you are and prove to your family that you definitely aren’t seeking attention in any way.
- Commit to positivity by writing what you’re grateful for each day in a journal. Repeat positive affirmations to yourself to maintain a healthy outlook on life.
- Having something to look forward to each day can help keep you from losing hope and spiraling out of control. Always have something scheduled such as watching your favorite television show, reading a comic book or taking a walk outside.
- Spirituality can give your life meaning, a sense of safety and make you feel like you’re never really alone. Everything happens for a reason and life is full of lessons. You can try prayer, yoga, meditation or attending church services. Head to the Teen Central website and click the Learn tab then Spirituality to read about it.
- Creativity can help you express your feelings in a healthy manner and find new ways to deal with your problems on a daily basis. It can be a way to deal with self harm, depression, suicide and other issues. Try coloring in a coloring book, listening to music, drawing, creative writing or other fun activities.
- Practice self love by caring for your body, mind and spirit on a regular basis. Know how important your life is and be grateful for it.
- You can read inspiring quotes or inspirational stories about people who’ve beat the odds to become successful. Think about how their stories relate to your issues.
HELP YOURSELF:
- In what ways can being positive each day change your life for the better?
- How can you take the energy you use on self harm and change it into something positive?
- What would a list all of the ways your life is important look like?
- How can positive thinking help you live the happier, more successful future that you truly deserve?
