SELF INJURY

SELF INJURY


Never an easy thing to cope with. Whether it is you or your friend, it is hard. You hear about it more often than not. "Did you hear that one dude cut himself! Ew!" But why scoff at that? Clearly, this person is going through something hard.


I knew a person who cut herself. She did it because she wanted to see what it was like. To feel something. It was a habit. Soon, it became the only way out. Scars ran up and down her arms and legs. I wished, so much, that I could've helped to stop it. But when I listen to her talk about it, it's not hurting her.


Ethical dilemma.


I didn't know whether I should do something about it and tell someone or if I should leave her alone and let her deal with it. But in the end, it didn't matter what I thought. It was a choice SHE had to make. A choice that, no matter what, I'd still be her friend despite it. Here I am today, knowing she's still okay. Do I worry about her? Of course. She's a special person. She's a friend.


Now, I've also experienced desperation enough to consider it. What would it feel like to cut myself? And I stopped right there. I can't do that. I've made a promise to never hurt myself. Plus, what will I gain? A moment of pain to distract myself? Not worth it.


Also, what would my friends think? Would I become the person they whispered about in the halls? Would they judge me because I did it? This ties back into self-acceptance here. If you accept yourself, these thoughts won't plague you.


Cutting isn't the only form of self-injury. People punch walls, kick things, scratch themselves, bite, hit their head off a wall. It is hard to cope with from the outside, but remember how tough it must be for them. The most you can do is be there for them when they need a helping hand.


Keep in mind, however, if you ever need help, there is ALWAYS someone you can turn to. Your friends, your family, your school counselor, even a psychologist. Sometimes, you can also just put your frustration into a creative outlet! Try singing every song you know, jam out to your iPod, dance in your underwear, go for a run, draw until your hand is numb! Try different things and someday, you'll get through it.


Remember: YOU ARE LOVED


fin