Self-Harm
(Cutting)
In Brief
Nonlethal pain becomes associated with relief.
Issues
Can be contagious. No noticeable high. Costs are minimal. No legal repercussions for the behavior.
Pressure-Cooker Metaphor
“You’ve learned how to release the pressure. Now, let’s turn down the flame.” ~ Unknown
Quotes
“People who cut themselves are their own harshest critics.” ~ Unknown
“The scars you can’t see are the ones that hurt the most.” ~ M. Hodkin
Resources
Websites
Crisistextline.org
Helpguide.org
Healthyplace.com
Movies
Secret Cutting
American Girls
Fatal Attraction
Black Swan
A Nightmare on Elm Street 3
Dream Warriors
Books
Helping Teens Who Cut
~ M. Hollander
Cutting and Self-Harm
~ H. Veague
Cutting Therapy Pros
Harm minimization. Alternative to suicide.
Cutting Therapy Cons
“There is so far to go.” Client fear regarding “duty to warn.”
