Freedom from Self-Harm: Overcoming Self-Injury with Skills from DBT and Other Treatments

by Kim L. Gratz, Alexander L. Chapman, Barent W. Walsh (Foreword)

Self-injury can be as addictive as any drug, and the secrecy and shame many sufferers feel about this behavior can keep them feeling trapped. But if you're ready to replace self-harm with a set of healthy coping skills, this compassionate and practical book can help.

This complete guide to stopping self-injury gives you the facts about self-harm, corrects common myths about this behavior, and provides self-soothing techniques you can begin using right away for regulating difficult or overwhelming emotions. "Freedom from Self-Harm" also includes self-assessment worksheets, guidance for seeking professional help, and information about the most effective therapies and medications. Drawn from treatments such as dialectical behavior therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy, the tools in this book can help you cope with your emotions whenever you feel the urge to self-harm."
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Genres: Mental Health, Self Help, Psychology, Nonfiction

280 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2009

Reviews

[Dani (The Pluviophile Writer) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I picked up this book because I suffer from Dermatillomania and while the majority of this book was directed at cutting, burning and similar types of self-harm, skin-picking was also mentioned. The beginning of this book provides a lot of information about self-harm, the causes and reasons behind it as well as types of treatment and links on how to get help.

What I found the most helpful were the last few chapters; the one on medication surprised me with information that I didn't know about but what was the biggest surprise was the different coping and awareness methods it supplied. I've done a lot of research and reading on Dermatillomania and it was nice to come across information and suggestions that I hadn't come across yet. I'm looking forward to implementing these methods in my fight to overcome my condition.

What was great about this book is that it seemed to cover a lot of the thought patterns of a person who self harms and provided methods on how to change your thoughts and also provided words of encouragement along with realistic expectations for recovery.

Overall, I am going to recommend this book to ANYONE who self harms and even for those who have loved ones that self harm as this book seems to have it all covered.

[Surbhi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a really straightforward book that anyone who has no knowledge or background can read. It's a rare self help book! Highly recommended for anyone who wants to know more or anyone who struggles from self-harm.

[Margo Taliväting · Rating 5 out of 5]

I re-read this book lately and i have read many good books about self-harm, but i would suggest to start with this one. Its written in a really concrete manner. I especially like the parts where it talks about what are the purposes of self-harm and whats wrong with it. It can help you be prepared for therapy. I thought long time that you have to deal with the undelying issues first.... but actually continuing self harm can prevent to deal with those issues. Stopping might be not easy and its no shame to search for professional help. Also, the more you try to stop it, the more success you might have. So, don't give up...and get some help along the way.

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have not read anything other than other reviews of this book and the preview but I'm eager to read the full book. I want to gain an insight into the depths of self-harm and hopefully, help people who struggle with self-harm. I want to understand everything I can about this subject since it is rarely discussed. It shouldn't be a taboo subject, this is something serious that people need to know about especially the signs. I hope to learn as much as I can from this book.

[Salmon Pilot · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very brief but comprehensive book on self harm. Help destigmatization, understanding, getting access to treatment, more information about self harm. if there is any cons, I think some of the content is a little repetitive. But in total, I regard this a quite good book.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting, informative read for anyone that struggles with self-harm or knows someone that does.

[Denise · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent, straight-forward book; not shallow or condescending. It's written as a self-help book, so I personally was looking more for information for teachers/professionals to use when supporting students who self-injure, but I think it treats the subject (and the people involved) in a respectful way. I'm not sure if some of it would be triggering, so that might be something to keep an eye out for before recommending it to someone who self-harms (or has in the past).

[valerie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn't know very much about self-harm before reading this book. I found this book incredibly helpful. It is written to someone who struggles with self-harm but can also be read by friend or family of someone who struggles with this issue.

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Likely the most informative, practical, and helpful book I have ever read on the subject (and that's really saying something!) Certainly not without its flaws, but so far the best I've seen. A very good starting point.

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pretty well written book. Good advice.

[Cait ♡ MintedReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read this over time and I really enjoyed the outlook and ways to help me improve my actions when stressed and sad etc.