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Friends and Family

If you know someone who self-harms, it is important that you know the dos and don'ts of giving them support.

Do:

Ask them if they want to talk about it, and listen to what they say.

Tell them that you are always available to talk about anything, if they ever need someone.

Tell them that you are not angry with them, and offer advice when asked for.

Don't:

Get mad, yell at them, or hit them.

Beg them to stop.

Continue to question them after they say they don't want to talk about it.

Tell them things like, "If you loved me, you wouldn't do this".

Tell them they are just trying to get attention.

Threaten them in any way.

Tell other people. Remember that it is up to them who to tell and who not to, and they may have good reasons. Instead, try to gently persuade them to find a trustworthy person to talk with, such as a mental health worker or a councellor who would understand.

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