self injury

Self injury is on the rise among teen girls. Reported cases include deliberate cutting, cigarette burns to the body, swallowing harmful substances, stapling, hitting or biting oneself and interfering with healing wounds.  Most cases of self injury are not associated with a suicide attempt. Most girls that commit these acts want to live.  Self injury is done privately as a tension reliever caused by emotional issues. Their nerves are calmed immediately after the self inflicted injury. There are instances where "cutting parties" are thrown for teen girls to cut in each other's presence. When it is known that a few girls do it, other girls that are depressed or have severe anxiety often want to participate in the same activity. 

Look for warning signs that  may indicate that a teen girl may be in danger.  Some warning signs may include; wearing long sleeves (often out of season),  razors found in unusual places, scratches and cuts that are blamed on the animals, depression, high levels of anxiety, severe self esteem issues, blood stained towels or blood stained tissue and sharp cutting objects found in the bedroom or bathroom. When a teen girl is not be able to verbalize what she thinks or feels, some may choose self injury as a way to release anxiety. It is important to keep the line of communication open with all teen girls. Parents, please let your daughters know that you love them unconditionally and that you are committed to get the help they need if you suspect that are involved in any type of self injury.