what is the "cycle"?

[Discomposure]

can anyone explain what the whole vicious circle is of self harm, i mean i know of it but what exactly is it like, and how do you know your caught up in it, it's just im slightly confused as to why i can't seem to stop cutting, its not like i must.. i just feel like i should and that i want to , even when i'm not upset... is this just me being wierd? it'd be great if someone could explain it for me because the fustration is really getting me down... (like im not alrready) i'm just really confused and to be honest it's really doing my head in. :(

[Atonement]

To me, the self harm "cycle" is a long period of time that you stop cutting, then start cutting for a while, then stop again. And you go on and off for a long time. This is often with extreme highs when you don't cut, and then when you do, it becomes hardcore depression. It is very common for women especially. Though, it happens in any race gender etc. So, the best way to fix this cycle is by therapy and a doctor.

[Discomposure]

Thanks for the reply, anyone else have any other idea on what it is? x

[dstnyisurs]

To me, it's when you're cutting, but it makes you feel worse. So you cut more. And it makes you feel worse. And you try to quit but it makes you feel worse so it all starts again. Because everything is a downward slope unless you can break free from it and spread your wings. But that's just my opinion.

[Discomposure]

yeah i get what your saying, i just have loads of different thoughts about what it is and sometimes wonder wether i am actually in it or not..

[StrawberryCyanide]

it's normal that you self-harm for "no reason" or when youre not upset. self harm is like alcohol, it's addictive. and often you won't realise you're addicted.
as for the cycle.. i think it's different for diferent people. but don't be confused and don't doubt yourself :) good luck with everything, x

[Discomposure]

thankyou :'m slightly understanding a bit more... im just not sure if im in it or not...

[Hyper]

You feel depressed, angry, anxious

You blame yourself knowingly or subconciously for everything thats wrong and punish ( again knowingly or unknowingly ) yourself by self harming..

That in turn in the great majority of people brings on a later feeling of guilt.. Which will lead you deeper into a hole of depression, feeling sorry for yourself, guilty, blaming yourself..

And so you cut again.. And the same thing occurs, somewhere you might stop but again it just takes 1 slip to be drawn back towards the circle

[Discomposure]

ah , right i get what you mean. thanks.

[Project Delta]

My verdict on this is
We cut to feel better about ourselves from the release of endorphines.
Then afterwards we would usually feel really bad about it
And this leads to more cutting AS WELL as the addiction to the endorphine rush.

[fallen angel]

Thanks for this post, it has explained and answered a few thoughts and stuff about my own self harm "pattern"

[Discomposure]

no problem, i just hate the frustration when your so confused, i find VT a great way to find answers and maybe just let out my feelings.