I Can't Stop Cutting...Help...

[Dancergurrl]

I've been cutting myself for about three years now. So much has happened in my life, including falling into depression, bullying, and abuse at home. Having no way to cope, I turned to self-harm to numb my problems. I want to stop, but...I can't. Please help.

[damaged goods33]

I'm sorry that you have a rough life that's not fair! Stopping cutting is not easy I quite cold turkey for a couple of months and I just recently relapsed but you can do it I have faith in you! Just remember being a cutter does not define you. You are so much more than a person who cuts. If you ever need anything I'm here to talk to. <3 you can make it through this I promise.

[kenoloor]

I agree with Gabi, above. No, it's not easy. But it is very much something that can be done.
I've found that setting small goals for yourself is a good way to start. Quitting cold turkey can be just as dangerous as continuing, sometimes. But if you set small, achievable goals to start, then make the goals larger and larger. i.e: start with just not cutting for one day, then go for two days, etc. it seems much more manageable if you handle it that way.
Also, something that I've used as a good distraction is to get involved in a project. Find something that you enjoy (like playing an instrument, writing, sports, anything really) and start a project. So if you're learning an instrument, you can start a new piece that to learn, or write in a different style or try to write a short story. Anything that you enjoy. If you involve yourself, cutting presents itself less and less throughout the day.

[StoppingTime]

First off, no, it won't be easy. but this doesn't mean that you shouldn't try your absolute hardest to stop. Cutting solves nothing. It may make you feel better for an hour or two, but you only feel worse about it later. It is a bad habit, and it helps nothing. I am not trying to bash you, I know how hard it must be. But there are things you can do to cope, other than this. Talk with anyone you trust about it. Whether it be a family member, friends, or school counselor, etc...
I saw this, and though it was an amazing idea.


Just interact with people, talking to them about you really does help. Do other things you like, running to clear your mind is helpful as well.

Finally, have you ever tried the butterfly project?
If not, info about it here. (http://www.virtualteen.org/forums/showthread.php?t=84655&highlight=butterfly+project) Also, not included here. If there is anyone you trust, have them draw it. These are extra special.

MAJOR EDIT: I REALIZED I QUOTED WRONG.

Good Luck, and if you believe you can do it, you will.
~StoppingTime/Steve

[Dancergurrl]

Thanks for caring and posting your ideas, guys. It really does mean a lot to me. I'll do that Butterfly project, and maybe start learning an instrument. (Well, another.) Start setting those small goals you talked about. I'm really glad I joined this site yesterday, it has really helped a lot to be able to talk about things and read other people's stories that are like mine. Thank you for being there, guys. <3

[StoppingTime]

Glad to help, we are always here. If you need anyone to talk to, you can PM a Mod, since you don't have 100 posts, which you then can PM anyone.


EDIT: I QUOTED WRONG, WOW. ANYWAY, I'LL SEE IF I CAN FIND THE QUOTE I WAS LOOKING FOR.