Self-Harm and Pinterest: A Safe and Positive Distraction

Many people who self-harm use it as a way to distract themselves from the stressors surrounding them. By focusing on the physical harm they are doing to their body, they do not focus on what was emotionally or mentally draining them. However, self-harm is not the kind of distraction people should use when trying to redirect their negative thoughts.

We know there are safe alternatives to self-harm that can redirect us in non-destructive ways. In truth, social media as a whole can be seen as a way to easy way to redirect. There are positives and negatives to social media and how it is taking over the world one app at a time. Many of the apps and websites that have been concocted recently can be seen as “time suckers” in that they are good to look at or use when someone needs to fill up free time.

In a way, those sites and apps can be seen as perfect coping skills when someone stressed needs to do something completely mindless.

Pinterest is a Healthy Way to Redirect

Over the last year, my admiration for Pinterest has grown. When the website had initially begun, I was confused as to what it really was and didn’t put forth the effort to venture further into it. However, I began to slowly find items I liked and “pin” them (or save them onto my boards for others to see).

Those who self-harm should make a board on Pinterest where you go to when feeling the urge to self-harm. This board could consist of positive quotes, photographs and other items that bring forward a sense of strength. Once you are on the Pinterest website or app, the distraction may make you forget why you had felt the urge to self-harm.

Ways to Distract Yourself From Self-Harm

Being that self-harm is an unsafe coping skill, Pinterest has thousands of healthy coping skills that can be used as alternatives to cutting or burning. Below are a few examples of ways Pinterest has recently distracted me from the stressors and anxieties in my world.

1. New recipes: I’ve never been much of a chef – the most I’ve been known to do is sauté some vegetables from time to time. Recently, I’ve come across some healthy, easy-to-make recipes and after testing them out, I must say they’ve turned out pretty well. Cooking can be a good way to distract your mind by replacing frustrations with new recipes. I even made some organic dog treats – my schnauzer seemed content!
2. Do-it-yourself home décor: I’ve always been a sucker for HGTV series' and testing the waters with interior decorating. During Pinterest searches, I’ve found easy and cheap ways to take old picture frames and turn them into wall hangings. I’ve done this a few times successfully and it feels great to let those creative juices flow.
3. At-home workouts: On top of getting back in the swing of things with teaching Zumba, I’ve been trying to get myself more in shape at home as well. For many, working out can help clear a cluttered mind and by searching for different ways to stay in shape, Pinterest can help accomplish that goal.

You can also find Jennifer Aline Graham on Google+, Facebook, Twitter and her website is here. Find out more about Noon through Amazon.com.