my friend cuts herself a lot like on a daily basis and i don't understand why she does it because she insists that she's fine and won't talk about it and i don't want to force her to because i don't really know what to say to her. what do i say to her and how can i help her?
[ Answer this question ] Want to answer more questions in the Relationships category? Maybe give some free advice about: Friendship? Evikins answered Friday April 22 2005, 9:33 am: Sorry I got this late, but, cuttin' one's self is one of the signs of depression. Your friend needs help. Its not healthy at all. I know you don't want to force her, but you could tell her how its not right to do so, and how she could get infected with deadly diseases if she continues with it.
She doesn't want to talk bc there's somethin' botherin' her. She doesn't/ can't tell. Ask her once again if whe wants to talk about why she does it- what exactly is botherin' her.
I'll also ask you to go talk to an adult. A school counsellor or a trusted teacher. Or if you're close to her family, tell the parent(s) (guardian). She might not like it but I'm sure you care (that's why you're askin' for help) and don't want anythin' bad to happen. She'll get over that. I don't know you, but you did the right thing, tryin' to help. I hope it works out and back to me if you wish. God bless ya.
Nicole [ Evikins's advice column | Ask Evikins A Question ]
Missa8305 answered Thursday April 21 2005, 8:00 pm: Well...First, I would like to state that I have never mutilated myself. Therefore, I don't really understand this type of behavior or what exactly causes it.
However, I can tell you that what she is doing is extremely dangerous. I can also tell you that she needs professional help. Immediately.
If she doesn't want to talk about it. Fine. If you don't know what to say to her...That's okay. It's fine and okay because she needs to be talking to a trained psychologist...and they will know what to say.
The best way to help your friend is to steer her in the right direction. Try suggesting that she see the school counselor, tell a family member, authority figure, etc. If she isn't receptive to the idea...
Then you need to tell someone. Your friend might get angry, she might even hate you. But someone who is in a position to provide her with the help that she needs will know. That's what's important. Not whether the two of you remain friends. Her safety, her life is at stake here. Do what you have to do, and no matter what happens, know that you helped your friend the best you could...And you probably saved her life. It doesn't matter if she appreciates it or not. Her being angry at you is a lot better than her ending up dead. [ Missa8305's advice column | Ask Missa8305 A Question ]
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