My alumina experience

In October 2013 we launched the first free online course for young people between the ages of 14-19 to explore what self-harm means to them. Over the months we’ve had many groups take place with some incredible results but don’t take our word for it, here’s a story from a recent group member. Oh, and don’t forget that you can sign up to a group by clicking here

“Before Alumina I never used to really talk about my self harm and I never used to understand why and how it started. Alumina changed this - it helped me to realise how my self harm story started. Before Alumina I was too scared to speak up and ask for help after my past experiences. It did take a while but after Alumina I managed to speak up and get the help I need. I also suggested Alumina to some of my friends that struggle with self harm and I also informed my psychiatrist about it and how helpful Alumina was for me.

Whilst I was doing Alumina I felt very supported and I felt like people understood me. Alumina helped me realise that other people feel the same way as I do and its nothing to be ashamed of. Whilst doing Alumina I began to understand where my self harm stemmed from and what triggered my urges to self harm. My two leaders were very helpful and were always there if you needed someone to talk too, even after the session!! I for the first time in a long time felt listened to and accepted.

Alumina has made a HUGE positive impact on me. If it was not for Alumina I would not have asked for help. I have been using my Alumina book to help me with explaining how I feel to people without having to repeat myself all the time.

Alumina changed my life, it took me 6 weeks to realise how my story began and now I am not ashamed to tell people my story because Alumina gave me the confidence to do this.”

ALUMINA

Alumina is a free, online 7 week course for young people struggling with self-harm. Each course has up to 8 young people, all accessing the sessions from their own phones, tablets or laptops across the UK. The courses take place on different evenings of the week and are run by friendly, trained counsellors and volunteer youth workers. You don’t need an adult to refer you or sign you up, and no-one will see or hear you during the sessions – you’ll just join in via the chatbox. We want to help you to find your next steps towards recovery, wherever you are on your journey.

Find out more