Self Harm

People who harm themselves are not stupid. They're not selfish or insane or attention-seekers. They are people who take things out on their bodies, rather than sounding off about things as other people might.

Self-harm's not about trying to kill yourself, although those who do self-harm are 100 times more likely than the average person to eventually kill themselves.

Harming yourself is a way of dealing with frustration and destructive feelings. It can go on for years before people finally look for help.

Usually people who self-harm can get loads of benefit from confidential counselling. Talking about painful feelings in a safe environment gives people another option to self-harming. So, if you're feeling like you want to hurt yourself, or do self-harm and want some help, give CALM a call and talk about the way you feel. We won't judge you in any way - we'll just try and help you find another way to cope with your worries.

National Self-Harm Network
Organisation campaigning for the rights and understanding of people who self-harm.
www.nshn.co.uk

Self Harm Alliance
Provides information on self-harm, and what to do if you are worried about someone who is harming themselves.
www.selfharmalliance.org

Sexwise
Free phone line giving the chance to talk to an adviser about sex and personal relationships.
Tel: 0800 28 29 30

When Love Hurts
A website guide to love, respect and abuse in relationships.
www.dvirc.org.au/whenlove/index.htm

BBC Health
The BBC produce a number of factsheets.
www.bbc.co.uk/health/mental

Young People & Self Harm
A web based resource centre for information about self-harm groups.
www.selfharm.org.uk

LifeSIGNS
A charity providing guidance & support to self-harmers.
http://www.lifesigns.org.uk/