I’ve read thru some blogs here, and I seem to be a lot older than most of the writers. I have been injuring myself for 37 years. That’s right, 37 years. I’ve been injuring since I was 11, and I’m 48 years old. I am married and have two children and one grandson. I have too many scars. Back in the ’70’s when I started self harming, there were no places like this, and no one understood. My SI is outrageous and out of hand. Yesterday, my husband caught me injuring. He was very upset with me. He said when I hurt myself, it hurts him too. I dont quite understand that, but I want to. I’m at the end of my rope. I called SAFE three times today, and I sent an email, but I havent heard back yet. I am hanging on to the thread of a possibility that they might be able to help me. I want to get better, but I dont know how. I’ve tried all kinds of ways to stop, but nothing does. I feel like an addict, like I gotta have my fix. My husband called me a junkie last night, but I dont abuse substances. I just injure, and I cant stop. Please help me.
I totally get where you are at….I’m 35 and married. Been doing this stuff to myself since I was eleven yrs. old. No kids though. I have been free from self-harm for almost 3 years. Recently I relapsed and the struggle is on. The only thing that is helping to stop the action is talking about the desire to someone that cares, sometimes journaling, reading, playing video games, and internet. So, try to find something that will distract you…and like me…one thing doesn’t always work. Maybe many different actions beside self-harm will help get you…us…past the initial desire. Well, the last thing I want to say is….”You are not alone!” I know! Hugs!
I am only 17, so I don’t know if I can help at all. But I will try.
Injuring is just as addictive has any substance or alcohol.
You are addicted to it.
Seeking help is an amazing thing for you to be doing.
I respect you so much for it.
As far as it hurting your husband too,
I get that.
He sees you causing all this harm to yourself,
does he even know any reasons behind it?
Maybe he’s hurt that he can’t help, can’t fix, can’t save you…
from yourself.
I’ve only been “clean” from injuring, for about two months now.
It’s hard.
But it’s worth it.
I send all my hope and love to you.