Hello. I'm in 8th grade and about a half year ago I realized my friend had cut herself. She promised that was the only time and that she wasn't going to do it again. But at school the other day I realized that she had cut marks on her arm again. I asked her why and she said to get rid of the pain. I understand she's in pain because about a year ago her parents had separated and her mom moved to a different state and took my friends little sister with her. And then there are other problems that involve her father. Then with the drama in Middle School and Boy Problems Involved with it, I understand she's in pain. But everyone is and not all of us cut. I just want her to understand it how I do. I think cutting is VERY stupid. I don't think anyone should purposely hurt themselves. I just need advice on how to get her to stop. I'm not going to tell anyone on her so I want to help her stop on my own. If anyone could help me that'd be great. Thank-You. :confused:

Hey,

Cutting is a very serious addiction just like any other drug. What is concerning is that at such a young age she can easily substitute cutting for a drug, or worse still combine her cutting with drugs. Many people who cut themselves also turn to drugs as well, harder drugs I may add, cocaine, heroine, etc.

I know you would like to help her and perhaps you should speak to her and tell her your concerned. However, at such a young age I would advise that you tell an adult when it comes to matters such as these. This may be may be more serious than she realizes and it is something that must be dealt with. I know you don't want to "tell on her" but you must realize that by helping her you ARE being her good friend that cares about her, even if it means telling her parents, they should know.

Cutting yourself does not stop pain - it inflicts it. Think about what you do when you're feeling down and try and use those things to cheer her up. Talk to her about your concerns about what she's doing, and that she is only hurting herself more by self harming, and even though you don't want to tell on her, if she continues you need to, just like BMI said, if it keeps going on it will get very serious very fast. The more you self harm the more you become accostumed to the pain, therefore the worse you hurt yourself to feel more pain. She could unintentionally hurt herself a lot more and could end up in hospital. Tell her your concerns and ask her to stop, and if she doesn't, tell an adult. It will be for the best. Good luck :)