Cutting / Question
Published: May 7, 2003
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I have been cutting myself for 3 years now. I am always depressed out of the middle of nowhere. It comes and goes. I have been trying to stop cutting for a while but I just give into temptation. I was wondering if I should "commit myself" to an institute. How would that work? And when could I leave? Please help
Signed: Confused And Tempted To Cut
Dear Confused And Tempted To Cut,
TeenHealthFX realizes that this must be very hard for you. FX is glad that you want assistance after three years of dealing with depression and cutting. And, getting help is your first step. You do not have to live like this and in time can begin to feel better.
Many people who are depressed or under severe pressure resort to "cutting" as a way of relieving tension or expressing anger. While this may seem like it provides some relief, there are many other ways that can provide healthy long-term relief of these symptoms. People who are involved in "cutting" seem to go through a cycle. Pressure builds up, they cut themselves and then they experience guilt, remorse or shame. They tell themselves they will not do it again but when the depression deepens or stress builds up the cycle returns. Cutting and feeling depressed is not something that you can just stop on your own - you are right, you will need professional help.
As far as committing yourself goes, you really need to start by telling an adult like your parents, a teacher, or a school nurse. Show them this question and answer. Also, let them know how serious this has become. They can help you to access help through a counselor or therapist. Getting an evaluation to determine if your situation requires a stay in a facility can be conducted with a therapist and at most local hospitals. This professional will be able to determine if in-patient treatment would be more beneficial than other strategies that could be completed as an outpatient.
Presently, most facilities offer short-term care followed by a structured outpatient program. When you would be able to leave a program would depend on the rules of the facility, your age, the location of the facility, and whether you were a threat to your own health and safety. Rules of the facility should be discussed, as well as a tour of the facility prior to admission.
Sometimes depression and cutting can lead to thoughts of suicide. If you feel that you are in immediate danger of harming yourself, you can contact your local emergency number, or in northern NJ, the Atlantic Health System Crisis Hotline at (973) 540-0100.
Lastly and again, talk to an adult ASAP and get yourself some help.
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.
