Self Harm, a thread

Things I've turned down:
•swimming with kids
•being bridesmaid twice
•best friends 30th as was in a spa
•nights out
•girlie holidays
•family holidays
•dancing jobs
•work nights out
•an operation
•an engagment
etc

Those involved no long sleeves

Places I've worn a cardigan:

•during labour
•in 34° degree heat on holiday
•dance class
•the gym
•a bra fitting
•a lingerie photo shoot
•a sponsored run
etc

The constant planning, worrying, preparing of answers as to why I wouldn't take it off in places I should have

Every single day stressing out over normal everyday activities right down to how high I pull sleeves up to wash dishes incase someone sees, it was EXHAUSTING esp as it has been over 13 yrs since i last done it!

Simple things everyone takes for granted I used to panic about

The reason? on a night out I was so hot I took cardigan off for a second and someone took it upon themselves to tell me how much of an attention seeker I was, ironic considering barely anyone knew as I'd always hid it!

2 years ago today I had enough and got a tattoo on one arm

Changed my life and 90% of the time I dont let it hold me back anymore.

The point is the subject is still so misunderstood, so many ppl still hide it out of shame, embarrassment, judgement and the attention seeking label.

Things need to change

I find it really uncomfortable to talk about and probably wouldnt face to face but if being upfront helps one person then it's worth it.

We are all quick to want to help people suffering with depression and yet self harmers we shy away from, we need to #EndTheStigma