How to Stop Someone From Cutting
Cutting is a form of self-mutilation. It is most common in teen girls. However, some boys and some adults also mutilate themselves. Since it is a stress-relieving addiction, it is difficult to make someone stop cutting. The mutilation caused by cutting usually is not a prelude to suicide, but it can cause tissue damage or serious injury.
Instructions
Understand the reason the person is cutting. Often the person has been abused or doesn't have a good support network in which to express his emotions. Tell the person that you care and you want to help her. Sometimes talking to cutters about it can push them away, so choose your words carefully before approaching them. Try to divert the person's attention to something more enjoyable, such as a hobby or fun activity. Know that these actions are not because she is a bad child, but because of feelings that are difficult to handle. Look at the person's past issues to try to determine the reasons behind these feelings. Offer suggestions to better deal with those feelings. If she is cutting because of anger, have her to try screaming or running; if it is way of calming herself, suggest that she try deep-breathing exercises, yoga or journaling. If she just wants to feel something, try an alternative, such as holding a frozen ice pack or chewing a chili pepper; these activities will achieve the desired goal without causing harm. Seek counseling for the child. Often family counseling is needed to figure out the realm of the teen's self-aggressive feelings. Encourage the person to talk to someone about his feelings, such as a doctor, minister or family member.