Self-harm
Self-harm, cutting, burning, overdosing, scratching, biting, self-injury
Self-harm: Confidentiality at Accident & Emergency
Telling someone about self-harm is hard and whoever you tell should respect your right to privacy. Find out more about what happens if you visit Accident & EmergencyWatch TheSite.org video
Six Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) distraction techniques
Kati Morton talks you though six different distraction techniques in this eight minute videoWatch Kati Morton's video
Read
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Self Harm: the power of talking
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TheSite.org: Having a self-harm relapse
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Time to Change: Blogs and stories about self harm
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Sane: Self-harm, the ‘secret self’ research
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The Student Room: Self harm information and coping mechanisms
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NHS: Self-harm self help guide
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NHS Choices: Cuts and grazes
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Royal College of Psychiatrists: Alternatives to self-harm and distraction techniques
What to do if you are feeling actively suicidal when usual services may be closed:
If you are about to harm yourself or have already done so, phone 999 or immediately go to the Emergency Department at your local hospital.
There is a university mental health advisor on duty Monday – Thursday 9:00–17:00 and Friday 9:00–16:30. You can contact them by calling 01752 587676.
You can also contact campus security 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- NHS 111
- Samaritans
- Big White Wall
- SHOUT (crisis text service)
Top free online games to support distraction
Read:
Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP)
Mary Ellen Copeland PhD gives a short summary of WRAP, an evidence-based system used worldwide by people to manage their mental health.Watch the WRAP video
Creating a WRAP plan
View the Recovery Devon information about creating your own personalised WRAP plan.
Connect
- Thesite.org online forum for support and information.
- Elefriends is a supportive online community where you can be yourself. We all know what it’s like to struggle sometimes, but now there’s a safe place to listen, share and be heard.
Additional self-help resources
We also have a range of leaflets, presentations and audio files created by staff at the University that may be helpful.
Professional support
If something is causing you concern, is upsetting or distressing you, then it may help to talk about it in a safe environment.
If you are a partnership student please find out what support your institution offers.
For students studying on the Plymouth and Truro campus, you can seek support and professional advice from: