Cutting and Self-Harm Behaviors in Teens

Cutting and Self-Harm Behaviors in Teens Depression Childhood Depression Print Cutting and Self-Harm Behaviors in Teens By Vincent Iannelli, MD facebook Vincent Iannelli, MD, is a board-certified pediatrician and fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Dr. Iannelli has cared for children for more than 20 years. Learn about our editorial policy Vincent Iannelli, MD Medically reviewed by a board-certified physician Updated on February 04, 2020 Parents won't let you go to prom? Talking it out can help. Jamie Grill/Getty Images More in Depression Childhood Depression Causes Symptoms Diagnosis Treatment Types Suicide Cutting is a type of self-harm in which teens deliberately cut or scratch themselves with knives, razor blades, or other sharp objects, but not with any intention of trying to commit suicide. Other self-harm behaviors can include head-banging, branding or burning their skin, overdosing on medications, and strangulation. These behaviors are more common than you might think with an estimated 17.6% of teens admitting to trying to harm themselves.?? Why Teens Cut Themselves Parents and pediatricians often have a hard time understanding why teens would cut or do other things to harm themselves. Not surprisingly, cutting is a complex behavioral problem and is often associated with a variety of psychiatric disorders, including depression, anxiety, and eating disorders.??  Teens who cut themselves are more likely to have friends who cut themselves, low self-esteem, a history of abuse, and/or thoughts of committing suicide. While it is sometimes seen as an attention-seeking behavior, cutting is a way for kids to release tension, relieve feelings of sadness or anger, or distract themselves from their problems. Of course, any relief is only temporary. While some teens who cut may have a friend who cuts or may have read about it or seen it on TV, most kids who start cutting say that they were not influenced by anyone or anything else and came up with the idea themselves. Signs of Cutting Cutting is most common in teens and young adultsâ€"especially among teen girlsâ€"and often starts around age 12-14.??   Teens who cut themselves are usually described as being impulsive. Some are also described as being overachievers. In terms of warning signs and red flags, your teen may be cutting if she: Always wears long-sleeved shirts or long pants (even when the weather is warm) to cover new cutting marks or older scars on her arms, wrists, or thighs (those are common areas of the body where cutting occurs)Routinely has suspicious cuts, scratches, or burns on her belly, legs, wrists, or armsIs developing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or alcohol abuse??Has trouble controlling her emotions (like if your teen doesnt know how to handle herself when she feels sad or angry) If you think that your child is cutting, ask them about it gently. If the answer is yes, its important not to get mad or overreact. You dont want to make them feel bad for doing it. Keep in mind that cutting is often a symptom of a larger problem, and you, as a parent, can help your child figure out the underlying cause by seeking professional help (more on that below). Treatments It is critical to seek treatment for your teen right away if she is cutting, both to help treat any underlying psychiatric problems, like depression or anxiety and to prevent cutting from becoming a bad habit. The longer a teen cuts herself, the harder it becomes to break the habit. Cutting can also lead to more problems later in life. In fact, the S.A.F.E. Alternatives (Self Abuse Finally Ends) treatment program describes cutting as ultimately a dangerous and futile coping strategy which interferes with intimacy, productivity, and happiness. These are some forms of treatment that may help your teen quit cutting and learn healthier coping strategies. Psychotherapy Teens who cut should be evaluated and treated by counselors or psychologists who have experience in treating teens with this particular condition. These types of professionals are skilled at talk therapy and can provide a safe, non-judgmental space in which your teen can speak openly about the problems that shes facing. Remember, it can sometimes be hard for a teen to completely open up to a parent, so talking to someone who is removed from their everyday lives might be easier for your child. Psychiatry An evaluation by a child psychiatrist (a medical doctor who can prescribe drugs) might also be a good idea for further treatment ideas, which might include antidepressants when necessary. Treatment Center You might look for a treatment center in your area that specializes in cutting. The name of the treatment center might include the phrases self-harm, self-injury, or self-mutilation. Support Group Your teen might also find help by joining a  self-harm support group. Meeting others who cut might help her feel less alone and might help her learn how others have successfully stopped cutting themselves. Treatment for cutting will likely focus on helping the teen develop healthier coping mechanisms when faced with feelings of anger, stress, or sadness. It will also help boost a teens self-esteem, help manage any underlying psychiatric problems, and help make sure that the teen isnt having thoughts of suicide.