I write a lot of my blog posts from my personal experience. I like to think that’s one of the most powerful things about Heads Above The Waves. It’s not some faceless corporation or distant boardroom of suits deciding that self-harm is the hot topic of the month, and we should do something about it. We’re not medical professionals, but we’ve been through a lot of the same things you have, and will do. That’s gotta count for something.

So I’m writing this, as it’s something that I’ve been working on in myself for a while now. I’ve always struggled with feeling like I’m not good enough. Whether that’s in terms of taking on new challenges, proving myself at school/uni/work, or even just trusting in my own thoughts and opinions against someone else’s, I think I’ve always undervalued myself. Part of that is not wanting to come across as arrogant, but there’s a big difference between self belief and arrogance.

I guess it’s also the case that I figured it just made for a quieter life to just assume I’m wrong or not worth listening to. It’s easier to back down. And while avoiding confrontation where possible is a good thing, putting yourself down and doubting yourself most certainly isn’t.

The truth is, that mentality had a knock on effect to most other things in my life, and my struggle with self-harm is one of them. I was telling myself that I deserved all the hurt I was going through, because I wasn’t good enough.

Looking back, I can see that’s a huge lie. And actually, I was the only one telling myself that lie, however much it felt like the whole world was against me. Don’t get me wrong, the bullying I was on the receiving end of definitely led me to feel that I wasn’t good enough. But the truth is, I WAS good enough, I just didn’t let myself believe it.

And so on to you. I’m telling you: you are enough.

Have confidence in your choices, your opinions, your thoughts. The big secret is that no-one really knows the perfect way to live a perfect life. Everyone’s trying to figure it out for themselves.

Absolutely take people’s advice, and listen to what they’ve got to say, but remember that we’re the product of our own experiences, and it’s up to you what you do with those opinions.

You’re good enough to deserve good things from life, not bad things or hurt.

You’re strong enough as you are, to rise above whatever crap gets thrown your way. Including self-harm. Though don’t be afraid to ask for help – that’s not a sign of weakness, if anything it’s a sign of strength.

You’re beautiful enough as you are. You don’t need to change the way you look. For anyone.

You’re worth enough for someone to believe in you, even if that’s just me. Cuz I do. The fact that you’re reading this means we’re on the same side.

You don’t need thousands of followers on Twitter or friends on Facebook to prove your worth.

Remind yourself of that, and when you can believe in it, and stand up for it, you’ll find that you’re actually more than enough. You’re amazing.

– Si