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Self-Injury?

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Posted 6/10/2010 3:04 AM (GMT 0)
Ok, let me start out by saying I have really missed this site! I remember going on here about a year ago, posting about my friend who was suicidal...anyway, that's not why I'm here this time.
I used to intentionally self-harm - I cut a few times, and after getting over that I got in the habit of biting and bruising myself. Now, though, I've successfully gotten over both of those things thanks to amazing friends and especially an amazing boyfriend. I was researching self-harm online, however, and there were two that caught my eye: picking at the skin and interfering with the healing of wounds.
I have acne all over my arms, and I have had it for quite a few years now. I think around two years ago, I started picking at it, in hopes to make it go away. It never did, but I kept picking at it and scratching off the scabs (not really caring if they bled). I still do, to this day, and I've never really thought anything of it. It looks kind of gross, but it doesn't hurt and it really doesn't bleed that much.
I researched a little online about those two forms of self-harm, and they kind of fit what I do. I even realized that I do feel kind of relieved after I do it, and I tend to do it when I'm stressed (I do it when I'm not stressed, too, but I almost ALWAYS do it when I am).
I don't feel like I have a mental disorder, but this kind of worries me...and depression and anxiety run in my family.
What do you think?
Posted 6/10/2010 3:18 AM (GMT 0)
Hi lae,

I believe what you are experiencing is a reaction due to anxiety, which is caused from the stress in your life.  It doesn't sound like you're too depressed, just unknowingly anxious.  My best advice would be to try and realize when you're performing this habit, and consciously tell yourself to stop.  Maybe even try finding something that you like to do that will relieve your stress and cut down on your anxiety, like hanging out with your friends or excercising.  That way, you'll be keeping your anxiety down, won't be picking at your skin, and be self-healing!

Best of luck!

Posted 6/10/2010 3:28 AM (GMT 0)
neverbetter,

Thanks for replying!
Posted 6/10/2010 1:38 PM (GMT 0)
Lae,

I tend to agree with the above post. It does sound more like anxiety than depression. Just remember when you pick at the sores they will most likely spread. So you are only making it worse. Is there an ointment that you could use on your arms to clear this up? Have you talked to your doc about this?

On this forum, we are not to talk about self harm. I did not edit your post because you didn't get into it a lot. But for the future, please remember that it is off limits. Though I don't feel that you are actually self harming. But please stop picking at your arms, and if you can't, talk to the doc about something that you could use to clear this up.

I hope that you are feeling better today. Know that we are all here for you.

Hugs, Karen
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