Anger / Question
Published: May 7, 2003
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I sometimes have fantasies about hurting or even killing other people. If i hear stories about like kids hurting other kids I just think about hurting them even if I don't no them. I even think about hurting my own friends. I don't want to but I can't help it, it feels good when I think about it. Will I eventually hurt or even kill someone? Please help!
Signed: Will I Eventually Hurt Someone
Dear Will I Eventually Hurt Someone,
TeenHealthFX has no way of knowing whether you will act out on theses violent fantasies. However, the fact that you have these types of fantasies and gain enjoyment from them is cause for serious concern. In the majority of cases where kids hurt other kids the confrontations are impulsive and fueled by anger and followed by some feeling of regret or remorse. Acting out a violent fantasies involves planning, calculation and a total disregard for another human's well being.
Sometimes people who have violent fantasies do so as a way of combating the helplessness they feel in their lives. The fantasies are about power and control and give the individual who is creating the images a sense of superiority. Even if the person never acts out on the fantasies, it prevents them from forming healthy relationships or adequate ways of coping with life stressors.
One thing for sure is that nothing good can come from having theses thoughts. You have asked for help and now you must act on this request. It is extremely important that you get into therapy as soon as possible. A therapist will work with you to see what lies beneath these thoughts and what causes you to feel this way. As you come to understand your situation you can learn healthier ways to express what is troubling you.
If at any time you feel you may act on one of these fantasies or become afraid of your impulses then you need to seek help right away. You can call 9-1-1 or go to your nearest hospital emergency room. In northern New Jersey you can also call the Crisis Hotline from Morristown Memorial Hospital at 973-540-0100. Do not worry about any legal complications. You cannot be charged with a crime for having bad thoughts. The mental health professionals that you encounter will only be interested in helping you not punishing you.
If you live in northern New Jersey and would like help finding a therapist you can call the Access Center from Atlantic Behavioral Health at 888.247.1400. Outside of this area you can log onto the US Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's website for services in your area.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
One out of every six American women have been the victims of an attempted or completed rape in their lifetime. A total of 17.7 million women have been victims of these crimes. 
