How do you beat your urges? Examine how you beat the last one so it can help you beat the next one.
- Did I identify what feelings were leading me to want to SI?
Yes. No. Maybe. I didn't take the time to figure it out, but I felt them pretty strong, so I don't know how to answer this. - If Yes - What were they, and how did I figure them out?
Anger, and curiosity (I'm somewhat "scared" to get better - am I still addicted? What will it feel like to do it again?). I identified said feelings because I felt them very strongly. - What coping skills did I use to deal with these feelings?
I didn't deal with the feelings as such - my kind of anger goes away with time, as does curiosity. I just thought about the 6th - I do a hug challange and the 6th of every month I get a hug, until I make it to a year - and it kinda gave me determination. - Were these coping skills the most effective I could have used?
Yes. I can't remember anything being so effective as before. - If No - What coping skills got me through?
- Why do I think they worked?
Because I'd be so embarresed and ashamed if I turned up on the 6th saying "er, sorry, but.....". Plus I'm quite goal driven - having something short term, that has a long term goal built in is a perfect strategy for me.
- How can I deal with these feelings more effectively next time, before the urge to SI sets in?
Ummm. Don't let my parents provoke me. Understand that dad may have a little bit of a short temper, and differing opinions is part of life. Also think back to how it was like when I was fully, fully addicted to SI and remember the reasons I want to stop.
Take care,
Annie.
