My problem is self-harm. I've been using a razor blade since I was 14. Even though I'm 28 now, I still do it. Earlier the wounds were light, now they are deep, and the worst thing is that I have no control over it and I cut around the veins. Sometimes I am afraid that a tragedy may occur. In addition, sometimes I have thoughts of suicide, I don't know how to help myself. If I confide in my partner with these problems, he tells me that I am nuts, that I should go for treatment, etc. It hurts, I don't know how long I can deal with it. Please help.
Self-mutilation is considered to be one of the manifestations of aggression, the most common source of which are depression. Psychologists say that aggression towards oneself helps to relieve the tension caused by thoughts of suicide. This type of aggression can be considered an attempt to control your body and punish yourself.
Please remember that self-harm is calling for help, attention, listening or understanding. It is important not to underestimate this problem as it is very serious. I believe that you should consult a specialist doctor as soon as possible in order to accurately diagnose the disease and further treatment, e.g. pharmacological treatment. In this case, it is best for you to see a psychiatrist.
The next step will be psychotherapy. Please do not forget that a psychiatrist is the same specialist as an endocrinologist, cardiologist or dermatologist. In our time, a psychiatric consultation is no shame. It's a shame not to help yourself. Autoaggression can also be addictive, just like alcohol or other psychoactive substances. In your case, during your recovery and possibly further therapy, you will need a lot of support from your relatives and full understanding of your problem and accepting your will to be treated. The support of loved ones gives a lot of motivation for treatment and recovery.
Remember that every mistake can be corrected and there is always a good time to start therapy. I think that you cannot erase old wounds on your arms or legs, but by starting therapy and working on yourself, you will not create new wounds or scars. So I keep my fingers crossed for you and I urge you to consult a specialist doctor once again.
Remember that our expert's answer is informative and will not replace a visit to the doctor.
Ewa GuzowskaEwa Guzowska - educator, addiction therapist, lecturer at GWSH in Gdańsk. A graduate of the Pedagogical Academy in Krakow (social and care pedagogy) and postgraduate studies in therapy and diagnosis of children and adolescents with developmental disorders. She worked as a school educator and addiction therapist in a drug addiction center. He conducts numerous trainings in the field of interpersonal communication.
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