15 Safer Alternatives to Self Harm (ditchthelabel.org)

• Squeeze ice in your hands really hard – this will be uncomfortable but you will find it has a very similar effect

• Use a marker pen to draw or write words on the place where you want to cut

• Snap a rubber band against your wrist

• Slap a hard surface – such as a wall or table top

• Flatten aluminium cans for recycling – see how fast you can do it

• Scream as loudly as you can (into a pillow or cushion if you don’t want to be heard)

• Punch a pillow, cushion or a punch bag – it may be a good idea to consider learning martial arts

• Throw a cushion as hard as you can against a wall as often as you need to

• Squeeze a stress ball

• Exercise; especially activities where you exert upper body strength like boxing and swimming

• Tear up an old phone directory, catalog or magazine

• Play loud music and dance as energetically as you can (use earphones if you don’t want to be heard)

• Write down exactly how you are feeling in a diary

• Go for a bike ride or long walk

• Look after and be kind to yourself; it doesn’t have to be something active. You could try meditation, aromatherapy oils or bath products, paint your nails, massage your hands or feet, watch a film and chill out. Play with and cuddle a pet. Cook or bake.