How can I clearly give others information about what do and don't want to happen?

It can be hard to express what will help and what will make things worse when seeking treatment for self-harm, especially if you are hearing voices, having intrusive thoughts, are dissociated or feeling strong and distressing emotions.

It might be helpful to write down or note in your phone information you want to share about what you will find helpful and unhelpful.

This list may include some things you might want to mention:

• How you are feeling now and how likely you are to self-harm again soon
• Where would be a safe place for you to wait for assessment and treatment
• Whether you want to talk to someone about your self-harm or not
• Whether you have a preference about being treated by a man or a women
• Whether you would like someone else to be contacted to support you