Self-injurious behavior involves cutting, scratching or piercing the skin to the point of bleeding. It is important to understand that the vast majority of people who “cut” are not suicidal, rather, they use this behavior as a coping skill to relieve the intense emotional pressure/pain they are feeling.
Individuals who take part in cutting often feel intense shame about it, and will cut parts of their body that are not typically exposed. This behavior is often done repetitively and at times to the point where people describe the urge to cut as “addictive.”
This site provides information and resources about self-injury to those who self-injure, those who have recovered, and those who want to help. Some helpful links within this site include:
- Practical Tips for Reducing Urges - for those who self-injure.
- Guides for Parents - of children who self-injure.
- Guides for Friends - of someone who self-injures.
Each guide explores reasons people cut, common emotional reactions to self-injury, and practical strategies and advice for approaching an individual about their self-injury.
Resisting the Urge to Cut
This helpful article provides practical suggestions for how to resist the urge to cut or self-harm. While helpful to friends and family members concerned for a loved one who cuts, this article is particularly helpful for people struggling with the urge to cut themselves. [kidshealth.org]
How Can I Help a Friend Who Cuts?
This article provides instruction and guidance related to helping a friend who cuts. It can help you to better understand your friend or family member and give you suggestions about how to best support them. [kidshealth.org]
Cutting and Self-Harm
This site contains general information for understanding self-injury including signs and symptoms, how self-injury works and strategies for overcoming the behavior. This article is written for both those that self-injure and those who desire to help. [HelpGuide.org]
Crisis Text Line
The Crisis Text Line serves anyone, in any type of crisis, providing access to free, 24/7 support and information via the medium people already use and trust.
National Suicide Prevention Hotline
This hotline is for people experiencing a crisis who need to talk to someone. It is staffed by professional counselors 24/7/365. If you need help for yourself, a friend, or family member, call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) right away.