What to Say to Someone Who Wants to Self Harm
When someone confides in you that they are struggling with the urge to self-harm, it can be a difficult and emotional situation to navigate. It’s important to approach the conversation with empathy, care, and understanding. Here are some things you can say to help support someone who is contemplating self-harm.
1. Acknowledge Their Feelings
First and foremost, it’s crucial to validate their feelings. Let them know that their emotions are valid and that it’s okay to feel this way. You can say something like, “I’m sorry you’re going through such a tough time. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed and want to find a way to cope with your pain.”
2. Encourage Them to Talk About It
Encourage the person to express their feelings and thoughts openly. Let them know that you are there to listen without judgment. You might say, “I’m here for you. It’s important to talk about what you’re going through. You don’t have to face this alone.”
3. Avoid Minimizing Their Pain
It’s essential to avoid trivializing their pain or making light of their struggles. Avoid statements like, “You’ll get over it” or “It’s not that bad.” Instead, focus on validating their emotions and expressing empathy.
4. Offer Help and Support
Let the person know that you are there to support them. Offer practical ways to help, such as accompanying them to therapy appointments, helping them find resources, or simply being a reliable source of emotional support. You can say, “I want to help you through this. Let’s find a therapist together, and I’ll be here for you every step of the way.”
5. Be Informed About Self-Harm
Educate yourself about self-harm and its underlying causes. Understanding the reasons behind self-harm can help you provide more effective support. You can say, “I want to learn more about self-harm so that I can better understand what you’re going through and offer the most helpful support.”
6. Encourage Them to Seek Professional Help
Encourage the person to seek professional help from a mental health professional. Let them know that therapy can be a valuable tool in managing their emotions and finding healthier coping mechanisms. You can say, “I believe in you, and I think therapy could be a great resource for you. Let’s find a therapist who can help you work through these difficult feelings.”
7. Be Patient and Understanding
Recovery from self-harm is a gradual process, and it’s important to be patient and understanding. Let the person know that their progress may be slow, and it’s okay to have setbacks. You can say, “This journey is not easy, but I’m here for you. We’ll take it one step at a time.”
Remember, the most important thing you can do for someone who wants to self-harm is to be there for them, offer support, and encourage them to seek professional help. Your empathy and understanding can make a significant difference in their journey towards healing.
