Apps and online support can be useful alongside other types of support, especially if you need something you can use in the moment.

They are not a replacement for urgent help if you feel unsafe, but some people find them helpful for managing urges, finding distraction, understanding feelings or feeling less alone.

Different tools suit different people. It is okay if something does not feel right for you.

Spot something that’s not on this list? We’d love to hear from you.

Apps for self-harm and coping

These apps offer tools that may help with difficult feelings and urges to self-harm. Some were designed for children or young people but may also be useful to some adults.

Calm Harm

Calm Harm is a free app originally designed for young people to help manage or resist urges to self-harm. Many adults find it useful too, though the style may feel more youth-focused. It uses short activities based on Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, often known as DBT.

The app includes:

  • grounding and breathing exercises
  • distraction activities
  • mood tracking
  • self-reflection tools

Some people find Calm Harm useful because it gives them something structured to do during the strongest part of an urge. 

BlueIce

BlueIce is an app designed to help young people manage difficult emotions and urges to self-harm.

It includes:

  • a mood diary
  • relaxation and grounding exercises
  • distraction activities
  • a personalised set of coping strategies

BlueIce is designed to be used alongside support from a mental health professional rather than as a standalone self-help app. Availability may depend on local services.

Tellmi

Tellmi, previously called MeeTwo, is a moderated peer support app for young people.

Users can anonymously talk about things affecting their mental health, including self-harm, stress and relationships. Posts and replies are moderated before appearing on the app.

Online support and specialist organisations

These organisations provide information, listening support and specialist resources about self-harm.

Harmless

Harmless is a UK organisation specialising in self-harm support and suicide prevention.

Its website includes information and self-help resources for people who self-harm, their families and people supporting them.

Some of its direct support services are only available in certain areas.

Sift

Sift, previously called Self Injury Support, provides confidential, non-judgemental support for people affected by self-harm.

Support includes phone, text and email listening services, as well as information and self-help resources.

This may be helpful if speaking face to face feels difficult or writing feels like an easier first step.

When online support is not enough

Apps and online support can be useful, but they may not be enough if you feel at risk of seriously harming yourself or feel unable to stay safe.

If you need urgent help:

  • call NHS 111 and select option 2 for mental health
  • call 999 in an emergency
  • go to A&E if you need urgent medical help
  • text BRIGHT to 85258 for free 24/7 crisis text support in West Yorkshire

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Last reviewed: August 2026