because each night i soak my body in hot water,
washing away my guilt for not being the perfect daughter-
but each night after washing i sooth in rich oils,
applying lotion over cracked dry foils-
of layered skin that's been ripped through like coils,
blades, scissors, burning flames or a boil-
of a lobstered body from that same hot shower,
why take such care of a body that's just another dead flower?

______________
⚠️ Authors note here!
Hi, this is theneighborh0od. I know that was a short poem but I felt this authors note was necessary. If you or someone you know is struggling with self harm, I promise you are not alone, and make sure if someone you know is also struggling that they too know they are not alone. Self harm can be very hard to stop but I encourage you (or the person you may know) to try reaching out for help. I know it can be scary but things will look up for you if you can seek the help you need. There are hundreds of sites on the internet that can help you of breaking this habit if you are not comfortable talking to an adult, guardian, or friend. Therapists and doctors are also here to help you!! Self harming doesn't mean anything is "wrong with you" or that you "need to be fixed" like some broken toy. You should never feel that way. SH is a self destructive coping mechanism that thousands struggle with, and everyone deserves to have someone to talk to.

Medical advisors are a very reliable source, that way you know you will be getting the best treatment that works for YOU. If money is a problem you can look into free therapy sessions which should be easy to find. Never feel shame in admitting you may need help, and if you have asked and still no one is listening, try talking to a school counselor (even though not all are as trustworthy and reliable as private therapists).
Don't hesitate to reach out to me as well for I am always here for you:)
You are never alone and whether you believe it or not I am proud of you for how far you've come.

Self-Harm Crisis Text-line:
www.crisistextline.org

SH help guide:
www.helpguide.org

Hotlines Texts and Chat Resources:
www.doh.wa.gov

⚠️ *1-800-273-TALK – A 24-hour crisis hotline if you're about to self-harm or are in an emergency situation.

⚠️ 1-800-448- 3000, serves as a crisis helpline for people all over the country.

What is considered self harm?
• Cutting yourself (such as using a razor blade, knife, or other sharp object to cut your skin)
• Punching yourself or punching things (like a wall)
• Burning yourself with cigarettes, matches, or candles
• Pulling out your hair
• Poking objects through body openings
• Breaking your bones or bruising yourself

^^ go to medlineplus.gov for more information on this

⚠️⚠️ Suicide Hotline:
(800) 273-8255

OR

text HELLO to 741741

💙💜