Cutting is one of the most common self-harm behaviors. Teens that cut are experience more emotional pain than they can handle. Cutting is a medical condition and whether it is being done to release pain or receive attention, professional help must be sought.
Reasons why teens say they self-injure
Feeling abandoned
Feeling judged Feeling unaccepted Feeling controlled Feeling powerless Feeling afraid |
Feeling threatened
Feeling alone Feeling misunderstood Feeling trapped Feeling confused Feeling unloved |
Feeling unheard
Feeling hated Feeling overwhelmed Feeling abnormal Feeling untrusted |
Warning Signs
Unexplained scars or injured, especially multiple scars or injuries in various stages of healing
Acting withdrawn and secretive
Acting depressed, "moody", and/or going from normal to angry very fast
Disappearing medical supplies such as bandages, disinfectant, etc.
Acting withdrawn and secretive
Acting depressed, "moody", and/or going from normal to angry very fast
Disappearing medical supplies such as bandages, disinfectant, etc.
Additional Resources
www.kidshealth.org/teen (search cutting)
www.teenhelp.com/teen-health
Source for this information: Operation Parent, www.operationparent.org, Parent Handbook 5th edition 2013-14
www.teenhelp.com/teen-health
Source for this information: Operation Parent, www.operationparent.org, Parent Handbook 5th edition 2013-14