Try the following techniques when painful or difficult emotions threaten to overwhelm you
1- identify your emotions and what self harm helps you achieve. Getting a clearer idea of emotions behind impulse can lead to better ways of coping
Feeling angry physical activity could help burn off those intense emotions. Feeling lonely isolated. Try connecting to people that care can ease this. Feeling numb engage in activities that produce pleasant physical sensations ie bathing, showering, eating food you enjoy, spending time outside
Change your environment, it can offer a distraction and it may pass before you return. Spending time in nature such as a place that helps you keep calm ie visiting a nearby park, nature walk ect
Physical activity can offer a distraction and lift low mood and reduce anxiety. Using sports and exercise may help you resist the urges
Simply being around others can offer a distraction that eases desire to self harm. Treat yourself to coffee and snacks at park or other natural setting again when starting to feel overwhelmed. Visit book shop, museum ect. Listen to music outdoors. Invite friends to watch a movie or tv show. Timeout to distract from painful feelings once you have connected feelings and emotions behind self harm.