TeenHelp - self harm

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- Self Harm (http://www.teenhelp.org/forums/f12-self-harm/)

- - self harm (http://www.teenhelp.org/forums/f12-self-harm/t126821-self-harm/)

I cut up my arm pretty bad when my boyfriend and I broke up. I'm totally regretting it , wearing sweatshirts all the time is annoying. My cuts scab
quickly , before my mom sees them, is there anyway to make then heal faster ?:?

Hi there,

I think one of the most important things to do is make sure you keep the cuts clean, so do make sure they stay clean. For added protection you can apply something such as Neosporin or Bacitracin, which is an antibiotic ointment. You can put a Band-AID on it for like a day or two but I heard that after it begins to heal it's best to let the air get at it.

Once the wounds have healed over you can use something that may reduce the appearance of scars, such as bio-oil, vitamin E, or cocoa butter.

But, of course, it's best to try and find other ways to deal with the things that are going on in your life besides through self harm, or you'll end up with regrets. Also, cutting doesn't really solve any of your problems but makes it worse when you have to worry about hiding or worrying about infection. These are healthier, safer ways to cope so you won't have to worry about hiding anymore.

It may also help you to get support for some of the things going on. For example, I bet your friends and family have ways to deal with breakups, either from experience or just their knowledge. Or, you can speak to someone like a guidance counselor.

You can do this!

-Dez

Hey there!

I'm so sorry to hear about you and your boyfriend. But as Dez said above, cutting is probably not the best way to deal with how you are feeling.

I started self harming a few days ago, and one thing that I find helpful is journaling about how I feel. Maybe you could start putting your feelings on paper instead of taking a blade to your skin.

Or if you're not the biggest fan of writing, you could check out the alternatives thread. There are some great ideas to keep your thoughts and hands occupied and off of self harm. Several of them have worked really well for me, and could do the same for you!

As for your cuts, be sure to keep them clean to prevent infection (believe me, that's the last thing you want). I use bio oil to help my scars fade quicker, and you can find it at any drugstore.

If you ever need to talk feel free to PM me! I hope I've helped you in some way.

Cutting is not the best way to deal with a breakup. If you really need to find an outlet for your emotions, find a friend or family member to vent to. Don't turn to the blade, it isn't worth it!