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Hi there,
There can be lots of reasons why somebody might self-harm. It can often be a way to deal with difficult emotions or a situation that feels out of their control. When we see someone else doing this, it can be hard to know how to help.
You clearly care a lot about your friend and understand what might be happening, but youre right that you cant change things easily. Youre doing really well to support your friend, but its important to know that youre not responsible for her safety.
You can talk to an adult you trust and should call the emergency services by dialling 999 if you feel her life's in danger. Her mobile number would be useful to give to an ambulance but it could be hard for them to know where to go without an exact address. This shouldnt stop you from calling them though.
Being friends online can make things harder, because you might not feel able to help her immediately. Especially if youre not sure where your friend lives. One idea could be to work with her to make a plan of self-harm coping techniques she can use if she feels like she might have taken her self-harm to dangerous levels.
Its also important to look after yourself online as well as your own feelings about this. It sounds like youve been thinking a lot about whats going on and what you should do. Remember you can always talk to a counsellor about how youre feeling.
Thanks for the letter and take care,
Sam
You can talk privately to a counsellor online or call 0800 1111 for free.
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