Still Healing, Still Here

Be advised: this blog covers the topic of self-harm. Please proceed with care and seek help through the resources at the bottom of this entry if you or someone you know needs assistance.

There are moments in life when pain feels too heavy to carry alone—when emotions become overwhelming and the silence around them even louder. This is a personal story about one of those times. It's about the hidden battles we fight, the search for relief in the midst of despair, and the quiet hope that maybe, somehow, healing is still possible. If you're struggling, I hope my words help you feel seen. You're not alone in this.

There was a time in my life where hurting myself felt like my only outlet. I was dealing with severe depression, and I felt that the turmoil in my mind had to be turned into action. I didn't know how else to deal with how I was feeling. Cutting felt like my only way to cope.

I hid my scars. I didn't want anyone else to know, but at the same time, I was secretly hoping someone would notice so I could get the help I didn't know how to ask for. I felt so ashamed and embarrassed of what I was doing. More than anything, I felt like I was unfixable - that something was deeply wrong with me, and everyone could see.

What I've come to understand is this: hurting yourself doesn't mean that you're broken. It means you're struggling, and struggling doesn't mean you're weak, it means you're human. Healing isn't linear - it's trying and choosing to stay, even when it's hard.

If you're in that type of place right now, I want you to know this - you're not alone. You're not incapable of being helped. There's nothing wrong with needing support or asking for it. I'm still healing, and if you are too, it's okay. I'm so glad you're here, you're alive, and you're trying. That is what matters most.

If any part of this story resonates with you, please know: there is help, and there is hope. You don’t have to go through this by yourself. Reaching out doesn’t make you weak—it’s one of the bravest things you can do.

Here are a few places to turn to if you’re struggling with self-harm or emotional pain:

• Crisis Text Line – Text HELLO to 741741 anytime, day or night.

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 to talk to someone who’s trained to listen.

• Self-Injury Outreach & Support – www.sioutreach.org – for resources and stories that might feel familiar.

• The Trevor Project – If you’re LGBTQ+ and in crisis, text START to 678678 or call 1-866-488-7386.

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It’s okay to still be figuring things out. I am too. What matters is that you’re still here, still trying. And that’s enough. Truly.