My 17 year old has been cutting. The "secret" is out and that alone has helped alot. She feels that she won't do it anymore - she got no relief from it and called it disgusting. Totally wonderful girl, but I believe she is also dealing with depression or perhaps anxiety? She has PCOS also which supports the chemical imbalance issues. I believe she needs counseling but I don't know which kind or who.
Hello- Thank you for asking the question. I have over 30 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families & am happy to reply.I am sorry to hear about this problem with your 17 year old.This type of behavior is often associated with anxiety related issues and is a response to unresolved deep distress that leads to this type of acting out behavior.I am going to provide you with detail from Harvard Medical School on this issue, support and treatment.http://www.helpguide.org/mental/self_injury.htmAdditional information is provided here:http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/self-injury/DS00775Persons who self injure in this way need mental health intervention to determine the root causes of this emotional distress. Because these issues can also have underlying biochemical or medical related factors, my first recommendation would be for you daughter to be evaluated by a Board Certified Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist.You can search the directory of Qualified Experts at the following site:http://www.aacap.org/cs/root/child_and_adolescent_psychiatrist_finder/child_and_adolescent_psychiatrist_finderShould you have additional questions- or need assistance locating someone to help, respond with your Zip Code, City and State and I will reply.I trust that this will help and get you on track.My best, Bill
Bill. Thank you for this direction - I really had no idea where to begin. You have helped a great deal. Take Care, Kim
Kim- You are most welcome- Always feel free to contact me if I can be of further help.Best, Bill