self harm????

[Jagmac]

this is quite embarrassing but I need to know. When my mother died I began pushing sharp objects down into my fingernails - it seemed to distract from the emotional pain I was going through. However, that was 9 years ago and I still do it when stressed. Is this self-harm as talked about in mental health issues??

[melons]

Hiya Jagmac,
Dont be embarrased to ask this. Its a bit of a taboo subject isnt it? Im glad you ask though.
There are some rally good self harm websites i have added a link for you below.
www.selfharm.org.uk.
Self-injury is any intentional act that causes harm to one�s own body for the purpose of emotional relief. Self-injury can involve a variety of behaviors, including cutting, burning, scratching, biting, pinching, hitting, head-banging and hair-pulling. There are some good links out there to have a look at. Have you tryed to get help before?

[tinkertontom]

please try and get some help , have a word with your doctor, this is a stress disorder that needs treating before you get any worse.good luck jagmac

[Jagmac]

thank you melons for the link. No I have never mentioned it to anyone and always wear natural nail polish to hide the damage I have done. Its too embarrassing to talk to my doctor, I'm afraid of being 'labelled'.

[Jagmac]

thank you tinkertontom, I will get some help. you have been very kind to a stranger and I wish you well in life.

[melons]

Hi again,
dont be embarrased to mention it to someone, i suffered with bullimia for a long time, it was my escape from the world. Its about the only thing i had control over at that time in my life. I wont lie it was the hardest thing to do to walk into the doctors and sat I MAKE MYSELF SICK! I thought they would call me a nutter or put me in a locked room. The only thing i can say is that after the initial embarrasment i found them very helpful and i must say havent done it for over 5 years! (round of appaluse please!!) try talking to someone dont sit in silence. You might find that some of the websites have chat pages and you might be able to share you views, feeling with other people. i hope what ever you decide it works out for you and that you get better.
Love Melons xx