TeenHealthFX - Answers - Scream - My Friend Is Cutting & Suicidal

Helping Friends/Loved Ones Who Are Suicidal Or In Abusive Situations / Question
Published: November 20, 2003

Dear TeenHealthFX,

Hi, I have talked to you before. I cut myself, I told one of my friends about it. At first she told me not to do it, and I told her it felt too good to stop. I also told her not to in case her mom and dad find out. Today I found out that she's cutting herself too. She also wants to commit suicide. I mean I feel the same way, but I don't feel good about knowing I'm the reason she's doing this. What should I do? THANX.

Signed: Scream - My Friend Is Cutting & Suicidal

Dear Scream - My Friend Is Cutting & Suicidal,

TeenHealthFX recommends that both you and your friend talk to your parents about your cutting and feeling suicidal as soon as possible. Your parents can get each of you the professional help that you both need to start feeling better. Being suicidal and cutting is no way for either of you to live.

That said; if your friend will not get help on her own, you need to talk to your friend's parents or another responsible adult, like a teacher or counselor at school. Tell them what is going on with your friend so they can step in and get her help before something happens.

For help in finding a therapist in northern New Jersey, call the Access Center at Atlantic Behavioral Health at 973-247-1400. 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 to therapists in your area. . Check out TeenHealthFX's sections on Cutting under the Emotional Health Section for more information.

If you get to the point that you are seriously considering suicide or are afraid of your impulses then you need to seek help immediately. 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. Outside this area call the Suicide & Crisis Hotline, 1-800-999-9999, 24 hours, 7 days a week.

Signed: TeenHealthFX