Helplines in Nigeria.

Are you or someone you know self-harming? Reach out for support from a helpline in Nigeria

Sometimes your emotions may be so overwhelming that hurting yourself may feel like the only way to find relief. Whether you are self-harming at the moment, or you have thoughts about it, there are 4 helplines in Nigeria that can help. If you relate to the following, reach out:

• Feeling like normal ways of coping don't work for you – the pain is a last resort
• Craving physical pain as a distraction from overwhelming emotions
• Feeling reckless, not caring whether you get hurt
• Feeling like you need to hide injuries from those who care about you
• Feeling like you deserve the pain
• Taking part in high-risk activities, disregarding safety
• Not wanting to die, but still feeling like you need the pain
• Imagining hurting yourself

If you use self-harm to cope with tough feelings, you may feel ashamed about your behavior. However, many people inflict harm on themselves as a way to relieve emotional pain. Self-harm is more common than you think, but a lot of people struggle to talk about it.

If you tend to hold things inside, talking to someone about your feelings can feel scary. However, trained helpline counselors and volunteers can help put you at ease. You can call a supporter in Nigeria when you have the urge to self-harm and they can talk you through your emotions.

If you feel like you might need support with self harm, try reaching out to a hotline in Nigeria. It's free and confidential.