How do I stop cutting?!
Question:
How do I stop cutting?
Its soooooooo hard. I havnt cut for a week now, but I'm afraid I might go into it again! I dont know what to do. The razor blades just seem to stare at me, even if I'm not looking at them. Confusing, I know, but still. Its hard, so I dont want any bitchy answers saying 'stop being emo'. Please, please try to understand. I'm on depression meds, and I'm getting therapy but I feel like I'm betraying so many people when I cut, yet I cant stop. Please, please help!
Answers:
When you have the urge to cut try some of these alternatives.. some may be more helpful than others depending on your reason for wanting to cut:
- take a shower
- use a punching bag
- put on some music that you can really identify with and sing along
- keep your hands busy - sew, knit, play an instrument, weed a garden, whatever
- go for a run
- watch a favorite sitcom or comedian
- call up or hang out with a friend
- play with your pet if you have one
- pray if you are spiritual; if not try deep breathing and relaxation techniques
- if cutting is a visual thing for you, take a red pen (or lipstick if you don't want a stain) and draw where you want to cut
- vaccuum (or maybe I'm the only weird person who finds vaccuuming therapuetic..)
- do something that requires concentration.. word puzzles, crossword puzzles, take an online quiz, organize your CD collection, anything..
- keep a journal or write poetry, let it be as dark and depressing as you need because it's better to get the thoughts down on paper than keep them in your head. If you want, tear up or burn the writings afterwards.
- punch and scream into a pillow
- take a bike ride
If you do cut again it doesn't mean that you are a lost cause or anything - relapses are normal and you'll just need to hang in there. Also set small goals for yourself. Rather than get overwhelmed thinking "I will never ever cut again for the rest of my life", try going a week, a day, or even ten minutes. Doing something nice for yourself when you reach your goals.
Good luck! :-)