Members learn about self-harm

On the face of it self-harm is not the easiest of subjects to be thinking about just after a meal but Nicky Guest from SAFA (Self-harm Awareness for the Furness Area)  gave members a comprehensive overview of the problem which affects all age-groups in the UK when she spoke at our weekly meeting.

 SAFA operates from premises in Duke Street with a mission to help raise awareness of the problem of self-harming.  A large part of SAFA's work is providing training to professionals and other organisations to help raise understanding, confidence and skills in others who support people who self-harm. They also spread the message of understanding and acceptance, which clients feel makes such a difference to their lives.

 Nicky gained the interest of her audience by asking if anyone in the Rotary Club had ever self-harmed.  With a sea of faces indicating they never had she asked if anyone had ever  smoked or drunk too much. Point taken!

 She explained that amongst other services SAFA offers professional counseling and psychotherapy with counselors who have received four or five years training, and the group always tries to carefully match clients with counselors for the mutual benefit of both parties.

The organisation also deals with eating disorders, overdosing on drugs or prescription medication, overworking, as well as self-injuring. Excessive risk taking and domestic violence and abuse are also in their brief.

Sadly Nicky explained that cutting can be addictive, and one of the problems SAFA has is trying to get people to come across their doorstep in Duke Street. Although clients can be referred from members of the medical profession anyone with a problem can also approach them direct or by telephone or through their website.

 Nicky also stressed the importance of clients having family support to see them through the problem.

Picture at the top shows Nicky with President Alf.