Self Mutilation (Cutting)

DEFINITION OF SELF-MUTILATION

Self-Mutilation also known as cutting is defined as inflicting injury or pain on one's own body. In addition to cutting, self-injury can include: hair pulling, picking the skin, excessive or dangerous use of mind-altering substances such as alcohol, and eating disorders.

Forms of self - injury

• Carving
• Scratching
•  Branding
• Marking
• Picking and pulling skin and hair
• Burning/abrasions

• Cutting (most common form)
• Biting
• Head banging
• Bruising
• Hitting
• Excessive tattooing or body piercing

CAUSES

People whom self-mutilate often say they do it when they feel anxiety, anger, fear, guilt, sadness, or similar emotions that are hard to deal with. Those who self-mutilate often have a tough time express themselves verbally or otherwise. If negative feelings are not dealt with, they build up.  These feelings can build up to dangerous levels and may eventually result in self-mutilating behavior.

 SIGNS A FRIEND OR FAMILY MEMBER IS SELF MUTILATING 

• Wearing long sleeved or baggy clothing even in hot weather
• An unusual need for privacy
• Often hesitant to change their clothes or undress around others

WAYS TO HELP YOUR FRIEND, FAMILY MEMBER OR YOURSELF 

• Talk to young people about respecting and valuing their bodies
• Parents can serve as role models by not engaging in self harm themselves
• Don’t take it personally
• Understand your feelings about the behavior
• Take care of yourself, set limits for yourself as well as them.  Earn their trust.  Triage
• Educate your self
• Distract them (suggest other activities)
• Offer physical safety
• Acknowledge their pain
• Be hopeful
• Don’t try to make them stop