Cutting / Question
Published: February 23, 2001
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I have a problem with cutting myself also known as "cutting" to most people. Well, I've only done it twice but it's like, I dunno how to stop. It seems like I gotta do it and I have been really depressed the last couple of years. I feel like shutting down and giving up. Do you have any advice? It's hard for me to talk to my parents. I'm not sure what to do. Please Help. A plea for help!
Signed: Cutting Myself
Dear Cutting Myself,
TeenHealthFX knows that this was difficult for you to talk about. Many people who are depressed or under severe pressure resort to "cutting" as a way of relieving tension or expressing anger. While this may seem like it provides some relief, there are many other ways that can provide healthy long-term relief of these symptoms. People who are involved in "cutting" seem to go through a cycle. Pressure builds up, they cut themselves and then they experience guilt, remorse or shame. They tell themselves they will not do it again but when the depression deepens or stress builds up the cycle returns.
You also have to be very careful that these cuts do not get infected. A severe infection from a "cutting" can lead to serious medical problems.
Please don't shut down or give up! The fact that you wrote indicates you don't want to live this way. Many mental health professionals are trained in helping people who cut themselves. You need to be able to tell your parent what is going on. They may be mad at first but they will realize that you are in a lot of pain and get you the help you want.
The best thing you can do for yourself is to get help. You need professional guidance to help overcome your self-injuring behavior and get to the root of your problems. For some additional information about self-injury you can check this link: Self-Abuse Finally Ends (S.A.F.E.) Alternatives.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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