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Self injury or cutting is a form of emotional release. People cut or harm themselves not as a form of suicidal attempt, but to turn their emotional pain into physical pain. Dealing with physical pain is natural for people, but most do not know a successful way to deal with their emotional pain. When people cut themselves, they feel a sense of control that some have never felt before, they control their pain, or to just feel something, onset by a feeling of being numb.

Although there is some sort of satisfaction gained from cutting, it is a very unhealthy coping tool. People who cut know that it is "wrong" or socially unacceptable; most of the time their cuts and scars will be in hidden places, such as upper arms upper thighs. People who cut or harm themselves usually use whatever is close to hurt themselves, like razors, knives, broken glass, burn themselves with lit cigarettes or hot lighters.

Self harm is usually started between the ages of 10 and 16, and is most common in females. Some triggers of self injury are sexual abuse or molestation, physical abuse,and major life changes that they feel they have no control over.

If you or someone you know self mutilate or cut, you should call your local crisis line, and seek immediate help.

Learn more about this author, Renee Grimes.
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