Mercy Ministries operates unique Christian residential support programmes all over the world for young women aged 16-28, dealing with problems such as eating disorders, self-harming, addictions, depression, suicidal tendencies, unplanned pregnancy and the consequences of abuse. Girls stay for approximately six months in one of their beautiful homes, receiving life skills training and professional counselling based on Christian principles.

 

Today's Community Church is all about life. We want to live life to the full; give life to all we come in contact with; and help everyone live the awesome life that God says we can! That's why there’s so many different and great ways for you to discover everything you can be, whatever age you are.
The Party is our version of church! We call it The Party because that’s exactly what it is. We believe church should be exciting, fun, alive, and a great place to make new friends. Every Sunday the Party features a fast-paced mix of live music, creative video, life-applicable talks, and loads of opportunity for connection.

 

Here are some books I would recommend if you are interested in reading more about self harm and related issues.

 

BLOODLETTING BY VICTORIA LEATHAM  

An autobiography by someone who self harmed.  The book gives a good insight into the thought process behind people who self-harm.  Written by a self-harmer, she takes the reader through her life story and recovery process.  As well as self-harming, the author has a diagnosis of bipolar disorder.   If you have been diagnosed with a mental illness and also self-harm, this book will definitely help you and I recommend it.  Otherwise it may invalidate someone's experience of self-harm without a coexisting mental illness.

 

This is another true story about self-harm and the road to recovery.  The author also suffers with an eating disorder and the book addresses that in as much detail as the self-harm.  The author is a Christian and talks about how her relationship with God influenced her recovery.

 

THE SCARRED SOUL BY TRACY ALDERMAN  

This is a brilliant self help book.  It gives some of the best information I have read.  It is ideal for people who self harm, families and professionals.

 

MERCY FOR EATING DISORDERS BY NANCY ALCORN  

This is a book about eating disorders and recovery.  It is written by the founder of Mercy Ministries who successfully help girls all over the world recover from life controlling issues.  Although predominantly about eating disorders, many of the themes and issues behind that and self-harm are similar.  It is good for sufferers and those trying to help them effectively.

 

MERCY MOVES MOUNTAINS BY NANCY ALCORN