Cutting / Question
Published: May 7, 2002
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I am a cutter? sometimes I want to tell people but I do not know how. My Mom knows, but she never knows what to say. My Dad kind of knows; but I don't think they understand the seriousness of it. I want to talk to my Mom about it, to help her understand, but I'm afraid she won't. I don't think anyone would, not even my boyfriend; he never wants to talk about it. I have no one to talk to about this and feel so trapped. I just want SOMEONE-anyone to understand. I just wish the people who should care, did care. Well, today my Mom saw my leg and she got really mad--like she does every time--and started yelling at me about it and said when she gets home from work she needs to talk to me about it. I am afraid she is going to send me away because she does not understand and I don't think it's fair for her to yell at me because of it. How do I talk to her?
Signed: Cutting & Alone
Dear Cutting & Alone,
TeenHealthFX is hearing you say that you are feeling very alone. It sounds as though you would like to talk to and depend on the people closest to you (your parents and your boyfriend), but they too are having difficulty dealing with the issue at hand.
TeenHealthFX is concerned about you cutting yourself. Cutting can be dangerous - there is always the possibility of inadvertently cutting a vein, tendon or muscle, or even the possibility of one of your cuts becoming infected. TeenHealthFX recommends getting help immediately to stop cutting.
You mention that both of your parents know, but avoid the topic, leading you to believe they do not care. TeenHealthFX does not believe this the case, but that they are overwhelmed by, worried about, and even scared of your cutting. Most likely, they just do not know how to talk to you about it, as you do not know how to talk about it with them. Nevertheless, this cannot stop you from getting the help you need to stop cutting. If you are unable to talk to your parents, find another trusted adult - perhaps a teacher, school nurse or counselor, or your doctor. It is imperative that you speak with someone immediately.
Check out some other questions TeenHealthFX has received about cutting - Cutting Myself and So Sad and also S.A.F.E. for more information as well as some resources for you.
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 911 or go to your nearest hospital emergency room. In northern
Signed: TeenHealthFX
Less than 33% of teens with depression get help, yet 80% of teens with depression can be successfully treated if they seek help from a doctor or therapist.
