Cutting / Question
Published: June 19, 2003
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I have friends who cut and they used to always tell me that it was a good way to deal with stress, and that it was kind of intense and distracting in a good way so one time I was really upset and I cut my ankle a few times with a razor. I kept doing it, never seriously but somewhat frequently and then I stopped for a while. A while ago I started again, and I'm not sure why. I think its partially to get attention in some weird way, even though I keep it hidden, but I do find it kind of amusing in a way too. I was wondering if it's something to be concerned about if I never cut dangerously, and mostly just for amusement. I do keep trying to stop but then I just go and do it again anyway. I don't think it's really enough to be unhealthy, but I'm not sure.
Signed: I Never Cut Dangerously
Dear I Never Cut Dangerously,
If you look closely at your question you will find that you have already given the answer, "I do try and stop but then I just go and do it anyway." Cutting is never a healthy response in dealing with problems because it does nothing to address the underlying issues. The problem becomes more serious when the "cutter" resorts to the behavior habitually to reduce stress or to avoid emotional discomfort. Plain and simple, cutting is unhealthy.
Getting at the issue that causes you to cut is the most successful way of getting the cutting behavior to stop. This is done most effectively in a therapeutic setting. There are many professionals who are experienced with young people and the issue of cutting. You could ask your family doctor or a counselor at school for a referral to a therapist is your area that they feel is competent.
If you live in northern New Jersey you can also 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 website for referrals in your area. Also, check out TeenHealthFX's other responses to questions about cutting for further information.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
Among young people ages 12-17, prescription drugs have become the second most abused illegal drug, behind marijuana.
