Substitution.

[zaphriel]

OK, bit of an odd question. Is substituting a behaviour for self harm unhealthy long term?

I am doing something that creates a lot of the same sensations, but doesn't damage me in the same way. I'm wondering if this is just another way to block myself off from the feelings long term though. I'm ok with it right now, cause I'm saving myself from creating more scars,and it doesn't carry the same guilt.

Any insight?

[munchalot11]

It's a tricky one :/

Personally i think it would depend on what the actual behaviour actually is? Because if it's still something that's damaging you, even if it isn't permenently, it would still be considered as sh... I'm just a bit unsure because you said it doesn't damage you in the same way but is it still damaging?

But then at the same time. If it's less damaging and not leaving you with scars and the guilt feelings (which i think are the worst bit, really...) then I don't see anything wrong with it, really.

Hope that helps

[eccentricfuzzyme]

When I first was able to stop cutting I did so by substituting other forms of pain and distraction. I squeezed ice cubes, for example. It was better, as it was safer and didnt leave marks and had less risks, etc. But the underlying problems were the same. And I still had to deal with them. But if switching to something else can buy you some time or some safety while you work it out, then it is worth a try.

[zaphriel]

ok, well the thing that I am doing is using a pen to mark what I want to do. But I am not using a soft one, so it almost mimics the skin breaking feeling.

[eccentricfuzzyme]

Maybe you could try slowly switching to things less rough? Like go from pen to pencil to pencil eraser to finger? Or something like that?

Or, you could try using a warternberg wheel. I sometimes find that helpful. When used lightly it feels ticklish, but when pressed a little firmer it feels like you are being cut, but it doesnt leave any marks (unless you actually gouge it in, but that is the case with any thing)

[zaphriel]

If I had any idea what one was I might! The pen doesn't cause any damage, it's just the feeling that is a good substitute.

[eccentricfuzzyme]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wartenberg_wheel

[zaphriel]

Thanks. Where the hell do you get hold of something like that?

[eccentricfuzzyme]

You can order them online or buy them at sex shops.

[Licentia Poetica]

I think using a pen to draw on your skin is a good start

[zaphriel]

I thought so too. It was only when the fact that I am still going through the same routine, and allowing the same emotions to happen was brought to my attention that I began to doubt it. I hate the way that everything I think is an achievement, isn't.