don't know how to "vent" without SH

Illumina · Post by **Illumina** » Sat Aug 20, 2005 5:57 pm

If you can, try to work out what self harm would have achieved for you in different situations, and from there look at replacements.

For example, when you were angry, did you s/h to physically work out this anger? If so, try to think of other physical ways to vent your anger - punching a pillow, running or some other form of excersise to throw yourself into, a really powerful shower, etc. Or did you s/h in order to SEE something come of your anger? If this is the case, things like painting (not neccessarily a perfect picture, throwing paint around can be equally rewarding), being creative, etc, can be useful.

Once you know exactly self harm would have achieved in the situation, it's easier to find a more healthy way to achieve that.

Good luck

jamie28 · Post by **jamie28** » Sat Aug 20, 2005 6:41 pm

i usually end up running until i am exhausted or just sitting down and writing.

not writing in any certain form, it may just be a random bunch of words that are running through my mind, and usually it's done as a word document, but sometimes on paper.

just a suggestion.

jamie

marshmallowfluff · Post by **marshmallowfluff** » Sun Aug 21, 2005 9:15 pm

Thanks guys, will try out your suggestions
MiStAkE xx

pandora · Post by **pandora** » Tue Aug 23, 2005 6:12 am

Ahh, how I relate to that. I've tried many different "coping skills" and while they seem to help to some degree or at least delay my actions for a while I don't seem to be able to find something that has the same effect that si-ing does.... it just doesn't hit as hard, it doesn't seem to let it ALL out in such a powerful way, it just doesn't seem to "cut it" -sorry the phrase just came to mind- in the way that cutting does.
Yet I'm perceviering though... I just wish i could find a way to let out such POWERFUL emotions ... and not just BARELY scrape by or feel like I'm merely delaying things.
Any suggestions greatfully accepted... what is an equally powerful outlet, not just something that takes "the edge" off emotions ?

katja · Post by **katja** » Fri Aug 26, 2005 1:24 am

throw something and swear a lot, or cry as loud as you can. It works for me.

Shado · Post by **Shado** » Fri Aug 26, 2005 5:20 am

I've read that Screaming or ripping up paper helps. Or maybe go for a run/exercise. Also, anything that takes your full attention helps. Dive into a book or go see a movie.

bus