I'm really sorry to hear that you're going through such a challenging time. It takes a lot of courage to reach out and seek help, and I want to emphasize that your psychologist is there to support you without judgment.
When it comes to discussing self-harm or any other difficult topic with your psychologist, remember that they are trained professionals who have experience dealing with sensitive issues. Here are some steps you can take to approach the conversation:
Remind yourself of their role: Psychologists are there to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for you to talk about your feelings and experiences. They are there to support you, not to criticize or shame you.
Write it down: If you find it difficult to express your feelings verbally, consider writing down your thoughts and experiences in a journal or a note. You can share this with your psychologist during your session. This can help you organize your thoughts and communicate your feelings more effectively.
Choose the right moment: If you feel more comfortable talking about self-harm at a specific point during your session, let your psychologist know. They can adjust the session structure to accommodate your needs.
Start slowly: You don't have to dive into all the details right away. Begin by sharing a little bit about what you're going through, and your psychologist can help guide the conversation from there.
Express your feelings: Let your psychologist know that you feel ashamed or hesitant to talk about self-harm. Opening up about your emotions can help build trust and understanding between you and your therapist.
Remember it's a process: Overcoming shame and discussing self-harm may not happen in a single session. Be patient with yourself and allow the therapeutic process to unfold at a pace that feels comfortable for you.
Recognize the purpose: Sharing your struggles with self-harm allows your psychologist to better understand your situation and provide more effective support and treatment.
Be open to help: Your psychologist may suggest coping strategies, interventions, or additional resources to help you cope with self-harm. Be open to considering these options as they are meant to support your well-being.
Safety first: If you are in immediate danger or having strong urges to harm yourself, don't hesitate to reach out for help or call emergency services if needed.
Remember that psychologists are there to help you, and discussing self-harm is an essential part of the therapeutic process. The more open and honest you can be, the better they can tailor their approach to support your specific needs. Over time, addressing these difficult emotions can lead to understanding and healing.