Self-injury is a very private behavior. However, once it comes to light it can affect more people than the person who engages in it.

​

If a loved one engages in self-injury, you might:

​

• Feel overwhelmed by a range of different negative emotions, including anger, frustration, sadness, helplessness.

• Worry to do or say the wrong thing.

• Feel that you lack the tools to support yourself or your loved one.

• Have considered the possibility of counseling, but you’re not sure your concerns or even your own mental health are “big enough” for that yet.

​

In the last months I found myself interacting with parents and friends of people who engage in self-injury. I listened to their stories and provided support when possible. Unfortunately, a common denominator to all their stories and experiences is a sense of helplessness, frustration, and anger. These feelings are linked to the complete lack of resources aimed at supporting those whose children or partners engage in self-injury. But I also believe that the problem goes beyond that.

Because if it is true that you are a parent/friend/partner who supports somebody who engages in self-injury, you are also a person who is struggling with a difficult situation. And you deserve to receive support for your own well-being. You can find some of that practical and emotional support on my website.   

​

Because I truly believe, that if you are psychologically strong and resourceful, you can be of great help for your loved one who self-injures.