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Post by Mel on Dec 31, 2005 18:22:30 GMT -5
Talking to Other People About Self-Injury
IntroductionTelling another person that you self-injure or "coming out" as a self-injurer has been likened to coming out as gay or bisexual. It carries with it stress and and fear. Fear of rejection and fear of what the other person may say or do. It can be a big step towards getting help or towards letting others into your world. For these reasons a brief guide on the common reactions others have to self-injury and how you can deal with these reactions has been put together.
You may feel that verbally telling another person about your self-injury in a choregraphed conversation is the only way you can go about telling another person about your self-injury. There are other ways, though. You may instead write this person or these persons a letter or an e-mail, some people find that this makes it easier for them. A letter or e-mail would allow you the time to express your thoughts clearly and it would allow the other person time to think over what you have told them. If you decide to use this method be sure to follow it up with a conversation or a phone call.
When you tell a friend or family member that you self-injure they are very likely to have some strong reactions, some of which you may not like. Be prepared to give them some time to sort their thoughts or feelings out. You may want to "just get it over with" but it is important you give them space, if they need it.
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