Cutting

Cutting is a method of self-inflicted mutilation. People who have emotional problems or are experiencing internal pain may cut themselves as an unhealthy way to deal with the trauma. Individuals who participate in cutting feel calm and stress-free while they are participating in this dangerous act. The act of self-cutting is completed quickly and impulsively, according to MayoClinic.

Who does it? If you are depressed or have other behavior problems, you are more likely to self-cut. People with mental illnesses may also use cutting as a method for handling internal pain.

Symptoms Cutting behavior is normally evident from scars and cuts on the arms and other parts of the body. The person may keep sharp materials nearby for future cutting and they wear clothes to hide the cuts regardless of the weather or outside temperature.

Why self cut? Although the reasons behind self-cutting are complex, some people self-cut as was way to express their emotions. Other people participate in cutting if they feel that external can help distract them from internal pain. You are also more likely to self-cut if you feel a sense of control after purposely hurting yourself. Some people are also self cutters because they feel vacant and the pain makes them feel alive.

Treatment Therapy is most often used to treat the behavior behind cutting. The therapist helps the cutter deal with the emotional reasons behind the act. A therapist will also help the individual learn their triggers for cutting and how to use positive methods for controlling stress and internal pain. Sometimes people are hospitalized to prevent further self-injury.