Supporting someone who self-harms can feel overwhelming; you want to help, but you might not know what to say or how to approach the situation. The truth is, you don’t need to be a professional to make a difference. You just need compassion, patience, and a willingness to be there for them. Here are some practical ways to support someone who’s struggling.
Create a Safe Space
First and foremost, make sure the person feels safe talking to you. Avoid judgment or overreacting – it can be scary enough for them to open up. Instead of jumping straight into solutions, focus on listening. Let them know they can trust you and that you’re there to support them, no matter what.
Understand It’s Not About You
It’s natural to feel helpless or upset, but remember: their self-harm isn’t something you caused or can control. It’s a coping mechanism for their own pain. Shifting the focus away from yourself allows you to offer better support. If you feel unsure about how to respond, consider seeking advice from resources or professionals in your area. For example, enrolling in mental health training courses Plymouth, like those at https://www.tidaltraining.co.uk/mental-health-training-courses/plymouth, or similar programs, can give you tools to approach the situation more confidently.
Encourage Professional Help
While your support is invaluable, self-harm often stems from deeper emotional struggles that need professional guidance. Gently suggest they talk to a counsellor or therapist. Let them know it’s okay to seek help and that it’s a sign of strength, not weakness.
Be Patient
Recovery is a process, not a straight line. There may be setbacks, and that’s okay. The most important thing is to stay consistent in your support.
Look After Yourself
Supporting someone who self-harms can be emotionally draining, so don’t forget to take care of yourself, too. Talk to someone you trust, join a support group, or learn strategies for managing your own emotions.
Sometimes, just being there is enough to help them take the first step toward healing. And that? That’s everything.
