HELPING A FRIEND DEAL WITH SELF-INJURIOUS BEHAVIOR Let them know that you care & will listen Be supportive & available - spend time doing enjoyable activities together Understand that self-harming behavior is an attempt to maintain a certain amount of control & that it is a way of self-soothing Encourage them to express their emotions, especially anger Avoid telling them to stop the behavior or making judgmental comments Offer to help them find help, such as meeting with a counselor Recognize that you are not responsible for their behavior & that you can not force them to change Seek support for yourself by talking to a friend, RA or counselor