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    Teen FAQ

    For over 10 years, teens have been asking us questions on every topic imaginable. While we are no longer taking new questions, we have a wealth of information we would like to share with teenagers.

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    Navigate: FAQ Home Page > Self-mutiliation > My friend is cutting
    Posted on: 05/18/2004

    Question

    Hello im asking a question about one of my friends. They are a cutter and they are cutting their self really bad and im scared for them what do i need to do?

    Submitted on 04/12/04 at 05:25:31


    Answer

    Dear Good Friend, Trying to help your friends is an important part of growing up. I have two ideas for you. First you might try making a pact with your friend or even group of friends to not harm yourselves no matter how difficult the situation. You can agree to call or email each other. Sometimes parents will even agree to a plan to have a brief call after curfew if it is really an emergency.

    The second idea is that often when people cut they are truly going through a difficult time and taking the step to get help is what is needed. I know kids who have called their friends' parents when they are concerned or spoken to a school or church counselor. Sometimes you realize that something like this will make your friend angry but that in the long run it is the right thing to do.


    Answered By:
    Gina Earle , LCSW


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