Teen Cutting - Teenage Self-Mutilation
Teenage cutting and self-mutilation is becoming a serious problem in young teens and young preteens. The problem with teen cutting is not new and has been happening for a long time. Cutting is usually done by girls but more and more boys seem to be following the trend. So why do teenagers cut themselves? It seems like a painful way to deal with stress and problems your teen may be dealing with. This may be one of the biggest reasons why teens will cut or mutilate themselves. They are trying to cope with serious issues and feeling physical pain feels better than emotional pain. In other words they escape their depression by hurting themselves.
Another reason a teenage boy or girl may cut themselves is for other people to take notice of them. This may seem like a desperate call for help, but teens need attention and cutting is a effective way for teens to get noticed. Seeking attention by cutting may be one reason a teen cuts but others may do it because they are angry with others or their parents.
If you are a parent and worried your teenage girl or boy is cutting there are certain things to look for and things you can do to help them. Below is a list of ideas you can try if you think your teen is cutting.
- Look for obvious things such as fresh cuts or constant band aid use. The cuts will most likely be small straight lines used by a razor or knife.
- Changes in your teens emotions and attitude. Also a big factor may be a change in clothes and or friends.
- You notice they are spending a lot of time in the bathroom. Or they be locking their door and spending a lot of time int their rooms.
- A form of self mutilation may be burning oneself. Some teens see this a form of tattooing and they may not burn due to emotion problems. This practice can be harmful so pay attention if you notice new burns that are self inflicted.
The best thing you can do to help is show love and support. If cutting becomes a serious problem you may want to get professional help and counseling before cutting takes a dangerous turn which could lead to death. If suspect they are cutting and hurting themselves because they want attention or because of behavioral problems call us today, we may be able to help.