i understand that self harming can help you cope, but only temporarily. sure, you feel a bit better for half an hour or so, but in the long run, it is doing you no good. i think you should stop before it gets worse. your friend cares about you and there are so many alternatives to it. as for the nightmares, it's most likely because you're so anxious and stressed. it will help if you tell your parents about that, before you start losing sleep. it's not up to me what you do with your life, but if you believe the smoking and drinking is the reason you're feeling so stressed, try and quit. i really do wish you the best.