Teen "Cutting"|Self-Injury - San Francisco Therapy for Self Injury, Cutting, and Self-Harm

Self Injury - "Cutting"

It's not just "cutting." Self-injury is the deliberate harm, mutilation, injury of the body or a body part, not with the intent to commit suicide. The harm, injury or mutilation serves a purpose and involves cutting, burning, scratching, hitting, biting, kicking, head banging and pulling hair out.

Why do people self-harm?
What you can do

to release tension

to express anger, or other unacceptable feelings

to punish oneself (guilt)

to "numb out"

to feel "alive"

to have control

to relieve feelings of emptiness

to stop "bad" thoughts

to calm down

to feel euphoric

be available to provide emotional support

don't get angry

listen without saying anything back

try to understand

don't punish or lecture

don't hide objects of harm

don't assume anything

don't be intrusive (snooping, invade privacy)

no blaming or guilt trips

I work extensively with adults and teenagers who are self-injuring, to find ways to manage and process distressing emotions rather than act in self-destructive ways. If you or a loved one is self-injuring, you should take this behavior seriously and seek professional help. If you are a parent considering having your teenager see a psychotherapist, here are some common questions that teens have about therapy. It can be difficult to stop this behavior without the help of a professional who understands how to work with self-injury.

If you have questions or would like to set up an initial consultation session, please contact me at 415.401.7180.