Even after I had stopped cuttting, I used to look at my scars and think that they defined me. They were a constant reminder of what I did, but what I didnt realize is that they were also a constant reminder of how far I have come. My scars are part of who I am, but they dont define me; I define me.

Recovery is not an event. It's a process. I am one year free of self injury but I still consider myself to be in recovery. It's okay. Have faith. Things do get better. You're worth it!

For several days now I have listened to my loved one struggle with the urge to SI. As a mother I have decided to try harder to understand and reach out to the resources i never knew existed.

"Dont hide your scars, dont be ashamed, they are a constant reminder that you made it through. You are alive.

I am 53years old and started to self harm at 45 I have been clean (and I say clean because self harm is an addiction) for 4 years.

The heart is stronger than you think you can go through anything and even when you think you cant you'll find away to still push on .

you deserve to be happy!!!!!!! it took me a really long time to finally look myself in the mirror and tell myself that i deserved more than razors and blood.

Self-injury used to be a big part of my life. I used it to forget the world around me and I could be in control.

I started cutting when I was 11 years old. I attemted suiside for the first time when I was 12 years old.

I am not a freak no matter what they say I am beautiful.

My life motto now is stay strong. My best friend kept saying that to me when I was in the dark.

Cutting isnt worth it. Stay Strong. Stay Free. Stay Beautiful.

5 years.. That's how long I struggled. From 7th grade all the way to 11th grade.

I've learned that at times I'm able to cope by taking every reason that's eating at me, writing it on paper, and burning the paper.

my counciler was so kind and understanding it was amazing. due to these steps, today on july 13th 2012 it has been 88 days since i last cut.

If you are a person reading this who SI's, know it gets better. It takes time.

You are not alone. I began engaging in self-injury when I was 15 years-old. I wanted to stop the emotional pain, and the physical pain was not only a distraction, but it provided me with immediate relief.

It is possible, there are ways. My kids are everything to me. When you find that something then hang on to it.