I'm sure you're aware, cutting yourself in any way is really bad, but with your NAILS? Hello, infection! Please at least pick something you can sterilize...

I can give you a few tips and suggestions:

First thing you need to do as far as that's concerned is be aware of when you get these urges. When that happens, also be aware that you are not a slave to your urges. You can control them, that's part of what makes you human. I can understand the frustration and the desire to feel something solid, and the endorphins that cutting actually produces, but that is NOT the way to go.
Cutting is like a drug, and it's just as addictive. You need to stop while you still can, and channel your energy into something else. If you really want to do something physical, when you feel like hurting yourself, go for a run instead. That produces endorphins just like cutting, and if you run hard enough, it hurts. Or, if you need sharp pain, keep a rubber band around your wrist and snap it instead. That won't leave scars, and your brain will have a similar reaction to that as it does to the cutting.

But, that's just one temporary solution. If you feel like you're losing your mind with stress like this, and you're aware that you're in a hole, you MUST seek counseling. We on this site can give you little suggestions, but in the end, we can't even help facilitate change because we're so disconnected from you. You need someone you can talk to on a weekly basis - or even bi-weekly, who you can connect with, who can help you climb out of your hole.

You can IM me at SirenCytherea on AIM if you want someone to talk to a little more, but you HAVE to seek active therapy in some way. The human contact makes a huge difference. If you do decide to contact me, try to IM more than once so I know you're not spam. As far as seeking counseling, I suggest you call your insurance company and ask if they can recommend an outpatient mental health facility near you.

I know you know that this is no way to live. That's why you reached out to us. Help yourself by finding someone to actively help you.

If I don't hear from you, I wish you good luck and strength. You won't feel this way forever. You'll get through this. =)

Siren

I will do. :] Thank you.

I'm a laid-back 26 year old with a Psychology BA, starting my MA program, and working my way into the field as quickly as I can. It took me an extra Bachelor's degree (in vocal performance and creative writing) to figure it out, but I was put on this Earth to help, to heal, and to love.

I have made the decision to dedicate my life and career to helping others. I am here to do just that.

I've been a member since 2004, and since I signed up, I've gone through quite a lot and learned quite a lot from it. I'm here to give guidance where I had none; no one should have to go through the difficulties I went through alone.

Feel free to visit my website/blog, if you want to read my experience with domestic violence and my thoughts on it.

***While I do tend to answer mental health and other health-related or medicine-related questions, I am by NO MEANS a licensed physician or practitioner of any sort. Any and all advice I give for these questions is from my own experience or studies.***

If you need to get a hold of me quickly, my screen name on AIM is SirenCytherea. Just let me know you found me here.

I'm a strong believer in the idea that there are no stupid questions except the ones left unasked, so, please, keep an open mind, heart, and mouth.

Siren

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