Top 10 Myths about Self-Injury

		Resources If you (or someone you know) have been cutting or hurting yourself, call the Self-Abuse Finally Ends (S.A.F.E.) Alternatives Program Information Line at 1-800-DONT-CUT (800-366-8288). For more information: www.selfinjury.com www.coolnurse.com/self-injury.htm If you have been thinking about suicide, call 1-800-SUICIDE or 1-800-564-2120. And remember, if you ever need immediate help, call 911.

 The wound isn't "that bad", therefore the problem isn't that serious.
Wrong! You can't judge the seriousness of a person's emotional distress by the severity of a self-inflicted cut or wound.

  People who self-injure are whacko and should be checked into a mental institution.
Wrong! Self-injury is a result of overpowering emotions and loss of control. Placing someone who feels that way in an institution could make matters worse.

  People who self-harm are just trying to get attention.
Wrong! Self-injurers may NEED attention but they aren't hurting themselves FOR attention. In fact, most people who self-injure try to hide their wounds and scars.

	Talk it out: » "teen cutters" » "self injery"

  Self-injurers are just trying to manipulate others -- such as parents, boyfriends or girlfriends.
Wrong! Some may use self-injury as a form of manipulation, but most don't. If you think someone is self-injuring themselves to get your attention, try and focus on what it is they want and assist him or her in getting help -- if possible, involve a trusted adult and/or health professional.

  Self-harmers pose a danger to others.
Wrong! Self-harm is a private activity. It's not about the effect on others.

  People who self-harm do not feel the pain
Wrong! For some, pain may not be felt immediately, during the actual process of self-injury, but they definitely feel pain afterward.

  Self-Injury is a personality disorder.
Wrong! Self-injury is not something you are diagnosed with by a doctor. However, self-harm is often a condition of someone with a personality disorder. But not all people with a personality disorder self-harm and vice-versa.

  Only teenage girls self-injure.
Wrong! Wrong! Wrong! All sorts of people feel out of control sometimes and don't know how to cope.

  Self-injury is a suicide attempt gone wrong.
Wrong! People who self-injure are not attempting suicide. They are using self-injury as a way to deal with difficult, overwhelming emotions.

  There is nothing you can do to help a self-injurer. They need more than your friendship, they need professional help.
TOTALLY WRONG! Yes people who self-injure should seek professional help but read NOISEmaker lonelychic's story and learn how a good friend can make all the difference in the world.

		• What is self-injury? • Give -- and get -- help. • Ten things to try when you feel stressed out. • Facts about self-injury.

--By Erica Fullington

Disclaimer: Information on YOUTH NOISE is not intended as medical advice. Its intent is solely informational and educational and should not be used as a substitute for professional help.