Self-injury/cutting

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Lifestyle and home remedies

By Mayo Clinic staff

While you generally shouldn't try to treat self-injury on your own, you can do some things for yourself that will build on your treatment plan. In addition to professional treatment, follow these self-care tips for self-injury:

  • Stick to your treatment plan, including attending psychotherapy appointments and taking prescribed medications as directed.
  • Fully disclose incidents of self-injury to your doctor.
  • Try to find ways to cope other than injuring yourself, such as reaching out to a friend, practicing relaxation techniques, contacting a support group or getting in touch with your doctor.
  • Resolve not to underestimate the ability to change your life in positive ways.
  • Avoid alcohol and illicit drugs, which can make you more likely to engage in self-injury.
  • Shun Internet sites that support or glamorize self-injury. Instead, seek out sites that are supportive of your recovery efforts.
  • Care properly for your wounds when you do injure yourself, such as seeking medical treatment when necessary and following appropriate first-aid guidelines.
  • Don't share instruments used for self-injury, which raises your risk of infection.

DS00775

Aug. 2, 2008

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