Freedom From Self-Harm

Published USA, 2009
Drs. Gratz and Chapman are noted researchers on this topic and their book speaks directly to those immersed in the problem of self-harm and are seeking a way out. They note that self-harm has changed markedly since 2000. The exceptionally widespread nature of the problem - particularly in high schools and universities - indicates that large numbers of people are in emotional distress and need help in coping. The book provides practical techniques for managing the triggers of self-harming behaviour. 'The best way to cope with negative emotions,' the authors ague, 'is not to flee them but to fully encounter and accept them.' This advice is based on treatments such as Martha Linehan's DBT, Stephen Hayes's ACT and Kim Gratz's own emotion regulation group therapy. The chapter on Coping with Self-Harm Urges breaks down the urges into specific components and teaches the reader how to understand, track, accept and manage urges to self-harm. This discusion is also applicable to other kinds of urges, such as using substances, eating and gambling. Guided imagery, breathing mindfully, expressing emotions and communicating effectively with others are other suggestions provided by the authors. The book concludes with a positive message about life after self-harm.

Kim Gratz is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Mississippi Medical Centre, USA. Alexander Chapman is a psychologist based at Simon Fraser University in Vancouver, Canada.
Paperback. 260 pages