Use Bright Color to Fight the Dark Stigma of Self-Harm

Did you know you can use bright colors to fight stigma of self-harm? Many people who are not educated about self-harm often picture the addiction in a cliché light. Some may think those who self-harm always wear dark clothing, seclude themselves and are suicidal. Of course, those are simply dark self-harm stigmas that the world has unfortunately thrown at people who self-injure.

Since everyone has his or her own story of struggle, you must fight self-harm stigma and get to know the addiction without cliché expectations. One way to fight the darkness of self-harm stigma is with bright colors.

Fight Self-Harm Stigma's Darkness

It can be very difficult breaking a thought or belief after it has been ingrained into someone’s brain. Whether the thought is about a mental illness or not, it can be a draining process convincing yourself of the truth. One frustrating cliché that gets thrown at those who suffer from the causes of depression, self-harm or suicidal ideation is the idea of darkness.

It is true that the minds of many who struggle with depression and self-harm may be littered with dark, negative thoughts. This comes from the disease itself and the pain attached to it. However, it doesn’t always mean that an individual who cuts or burns will always wear black clothing or dye their hair dark. Someone who self-harms could easily have a positive, outward appearance when inside they are truly suffering.

And in reality, how you feel on the inside should take priority to how you look on the outside.

Bust Out Bright Colors to Fight Self-Harm Stigma

I do not want to jinx it, but I think spring has finally sprung in Central New York. After a tough, tiring winter, it has been wonderful being able to walk my dog outside without a coat and not having to worry about driving conditions on my way to work.

One thing I have started to recognize is the abundance of bright color.

Spring is often known for color: flowers are blooming, new clothes arrive in stores and, at least for me, the sun gives me a few more freckles on my face. One thing I’ve started to realize about color is how it can truly uplift your mood. Just after walking through the mall and noticing how much bright colored clothing was now available, I started to walk with a little more confidence. Even the small, purple flowers that have started scattering lawns (that many people see as weeds) have brought an extra spark to my day.

Like I mentioned before, many people attach the stigma of darkness to those who self-harm. Even though that stigma is really only true when it comes to dark thoughts, surrounding yourself with bright colors could be a good way to lighten up the darkness in your mind. Whether it means changing up a few outfits or replacing your comforter with one that is brighter (which I recently did), a little colorful change could make a big different. Brightening your life may not only improve your overall mindset, but could slowly replace the stigma that all those who self-harm live in a world of darkness.

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