SI Aware <3

What's hard for some people to understand and what almost any Self Injurer can tell you is that SIing really is an addiction. Once you start, it's hard to stop. You want more each time... you become addicted to the pain, the blood, the scars, the burning, the bruises, the relief. But some part of you seems to know it's wrong, that you shouldn't be doing this. It might be hurting your family and friends, or making you feel embarrassed or ashamed.

Eventually most of us come to a point where we know we need to quit. And this is what this page is for-- to help you out on your road to recovery. First, let's start with some pointers.

*You have to want it. No one can make you quit but yourself, and unless you have the will to quit, it's nearly impossible. No one but you knows when you're ready to take that step.

*Failing to resist the urge to SI does not mean you have failed. Quitting is a long and rough process, and giving in every now and then may be part of it. Just remember to be stronger next time and think of ways to distract yourself better... and don't forget to congratulate yourself on how long you DID resist the urge.

*Reward yourself. If you can go without cutting for a week when you used to cut every day, treat yourself to a day out with your friends or a sweet ice cream sundae. If you can go a month, go out and see that movie you've been meaning to see, and don't forget the popcorn. However, don't get too caught up in the rewards... remember that quitting is not about getting to go shopping at the mall with your closest pal, it's about feeling better about yourself and breaking an unhealthy habit.

"[Take it] one day at a time. Its an addiction, one that won't easily go away. I still fight with it sometimes."--Female, began cutting when she was 12. Quit almost three years ago.

"Take it a day at a time, make goals and rewards."-- Female, began Self Injuring when she was 9. In the process of quitting.

"Find someone that you can confide in. One person that you completely trust. Give them your life, let them help you."-- Female, began Self Injuring when she was 13. In the process of quitting.

"Don't give up. If you really want it, it can be done."-- Female, began Self Injuring when she was 18. Wants to quit but has not yet.

"It's hard but if you keep at it I'm sure you can do it!"-- Female, has been Self Injuring since they were very little. Has some desire to quit.

"Will power is the best tool to use."-- Female, has been Self Injuring since she was 12. In the process of quitting.

Have some advice YOU would like to give? Email us at SI.Aware.Support@gmail.com