Stories of me and myself

What struck me most today in Ed Psych was the hard truth about self-harm. Individuals harm/hurt themselves to distract themselves from the psychological hurt. They deal with it in this way cos at least they know how to deal with the physical pain. They know exactly where it is coming from, and it takes away the emotional/mental pain and hurt. People who injure themselves usually suffer from inability to cope with stress, peer pressure, peer influence, depression, or some kind of trauma which eats them up internally. Instead of outwardly expressing their hurt, anger, frustration, etc, they turn to hurting themselves. They usually slash themselves with penknives, safety pins, anything at all, or burn themselves, etc. It was mentioned in the video that the more the blood flows, the better they feel, cos it's like their problems and troubles are flowing away as well. Sad huh?

What would you do if you had students like this in your class? Of course the genuine cases would prefer to stay in the closet rite? If not, that would be attention-seeking already, cos if you like to be in the open, then you wouldn't turn to hantuming yourself rite? Not too strong an argument I know. There are cases of peer influence, and "fashion", where "everyone is doing it" and "it's cool". (That's just crazy!) You will DEFINITELY scar yourself for life! Well, if these silly kids think that it's a "badge of honour", then good lor. As long as they dun die from it.

I think as teachers, we need to be very aware of these situations. But as Tutor V advised, NEVER ever confront that student in front of the whole class. You will cause him/her to lose face and bring unnecessary attention upon him/her. Rather, have a private talk with the student and see how you can help. Kids can tell when you truly care. Sincerity can move a rock. But do the same even for those who are attention-seeking and shove their wrists in front of you. You never know when it's serious.

But I guess I do understand the need to release the tension, to take it out on something. But there are better methods of doing so. Healthy ones. Like take a cold cold shower, go for a run/swim, engage in rigorous sports, punch a pillow or stuff toy (that's what they are for rite? Heh), or SLEEP! Then when we have cooled down, try to sort our thoughts out, seek a listening ear, and try to solve the problem. Nothing in this world is "unsolve-able". God is sovereign and He cares for every single individual. And He will answer our prayers, make a way and see us through thru the most trying and difficult times. If only we will turn to Him.