We get lots of emails, especially about our articles on cutting. Sometimes people tell us about the feelings and emotions that surround cutting. Others share their ideas on how they stopped. We decided to put some of these suggestions and comments on our site.
Of course, the reasons why people cut are very different. So the comments below may help some people but not others.
When readers email us, it's through a secure system that doesn't record names or other personal information. That's why you don't see any personal details here — just experiences and a desire to help from the people who've been there.
"This stopped my cutting completely: When you want to cut, whether your wrist or thigh, stare at it intensely. Imagine it belongs to your best friend, girlfriend/boyfriend, brother, sister, father, mother, grandmother, or other meaningful person in your life. Ask yourself, 'Would I cut him/her?' You'll find yourself losing the urge to cut when you realize how fortunate you are to have this person who loves you. If possible, put away the knife or razor blade or whatever it is, and talk to the person. Thank them for loving you."
"What really helped me quit was writing poetry. When I wanted to cut, I would get out my notebook instead. A lot of my friends used to cut (some still do), and write poems, so sharing with them helped a lot. I haven't cut since my 13th birthday, and I feel so much better. Sometimes I want to cut again, but my best friend does it really bad and I think how much I don't want her to."