by Stefani Andrews

Created on: September 16, 2008

The first thing to understand about self-injury is that normally it is not an indication that the injurer wants to kill themselves. In fact, usually just the opposite is true. No one can doubt that some self-injurers are suicidal, but that is far from typical. People who cut are trying to avoid unwanted feelings or thoughts, like suicidal thoughts and feelings. They want to be numb in much the same way a drug addict wants to be numb from the rest of their lives.

One very important step on the road to recovery is recognizing that you no longer want to cut yourself. It may sound easy, but it is a complicated process. There will be a part of your brain that wants desperately to stop what you know is a destructive behavior, but the rest of you will be aching to pick up that razor just one more time. Whether you believe it or not cutting is a highly addictive behavior and can be the only way one knows how to cope with stress or emotion. I do not say this from the position of a mental health professional, or a by standing friend or family member, I speak from experience. Having spent most of my life in the grips of my own cutting, I know how difficult it can be. But it is not impossible; you can overcome your cutting and stop if you really want to. Recognizing that there is a problem and that this is an addictive behavior is the first stop on that journey.

Next it's important to find someone you trust that you can discuss your feelings with. This can be a therapist, a priest, a parent, a sibling, or a friend. This is probably one of the hardest steps; chances are you've been hiding your cutting from the world for a long time. Don't be discouraged if they react badly, it's natural for them to be shocked and concerned. But running from your feelings and emotions has led you to cutting; you need to give yourself another outlet for those emotions than on your skin. Talk to the person you trust when you feel the desire to hurt yourself. You will need their support in the early stages of recovery, so don't be afraid to tell them about your urges to cut. They may be able to provide you a distraction that will keep you safe.

It is also advisable to remove your "kit" from your immediate area. I'm sure you have all your cutting tools set aside somewhere just in case, I know I always did. Think about it this way, if you have to search for something to cut yourself with you are more likely to calm down and no longer want to once you find something. It has probably become such a

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