It can be hard to control the urge to intentionally harm yourself, especially if hurting yourself helps release intense negative emotions. However, it’s important to get help when you’re ready because self-harm carries risks. There are 6 hotlines in Massachusetts, United States that can help. Reach out if you experience the following:

Coming up with excuses and ways to explain self-inflicted injuries
Not looking after your physical health (e.g. not eating, not taking care of wounds or injuries)
Feeling like you need a physical release for your emotions
Looking for a way to escape the emotional pain
Feeling like your emotions are too difficult or overwhelming to deal with
Searching for ways to self-harm
Craving physical pain as a distraction from overwhelming emotions
Cutting yourself with a sharp object

Self-harm is more common than you may think, but it's not talked about much. It’s normal to look for ways to manage intense emotional pain. When you’re under extreme emotional pressure, self-harm can seem like the only way to relieve it.

Talking about how you feel can be difficult,, especially if you tend to bottle things up. But talking can offer you a healthy alternative for releasing negative emotions. Helpline counselors in Massachusetts, United States want to listen to you and support you. They can help you find ways to feel better without hurting yourself.

If you are ready to talk to someone about self harm, you can contact a hotline in Massachusetts, United States for free and confidential support.