If I self-harm in a visible place, does that mean I'm secretly doing it for the attention?

Maybe. Only you can answer that. However, I want to mention that "doing it for attention" doesn't mean "doing it for no reason" or "you're a bad person". Honestly, when people harm for "attention" they are seeking help without being able to verbalize their needs in a productive and healthy manner. Self harm is a symptom of things that are going wrong for us. And whether we harm in complete secrecy, partial secrecy, or plain sight, we all deserve support and help in recovering from whatever it is that is causing us so much pain.

No. It's a sign that you need someone's help. You are in a battle with the world, and you need help. It is not even close to being a sign of weakness. I should know. I am a self-harmer too.

No. Anyone who does self harm doesn't do it for the attention. I'm sincerely sorry you are harming yourself, and I would recommend anyone who is doing this to look at our Self Harm guide on 7Cups. If anyone thinks you are seeking attention, please don't acknowledge their opinion: they most likely do not understand how it feels to self harm or what situation you are in at this moment. Stay strong, and remember we care about you so much here. Don't listen to the negativity people might be giving you.

Not at all! That never ever means that! The location NEVER HAS ANYTHING TO DO WITH IT. You're sad and angry and taking it out on yourself. You need help. you aren't trying to grab attention towards that.

No it doesn't, its just a spur of the moment thing and you don't really know what you're doing our where you're doing it, definitely nothing to fret upon.

Self harm isn't a good idea for anyone. So if you are thinking about it just think of all the people who love you and how hurt will they be due to this action. As far as what others think.. You can't control it so don't even think of harming yourself, if not for you think about your family and loved ones

Never!! We are never thinking about attention and if you ever do it in a visible place its because you are hoping people may just actually notice how hurt you are

No it doesn't. When you self-harm, you really don't think about the place you self-harm to/on, you just do it quickly because you want to feel better.

Its really up to you to decide if your doing it to get attention. But I also believe that when you self harm that thought is far from your mind. Yoiur only focused on the cutting, so I don't think it self harm is used as a cry for attention for most people.

Self-harm is a way of copping with difficult times. Although, you might unconsciously do it for attention. That's not bad, (well, self-harm is extremely bad, just not the fact that you need attention). It is possible that people don't pay enough attention to you and you feel left out. You might want someone to notice you. That's okay, but self-harm is not the way to go about it. Tell people how you feel and they might be able to help. Remember, you're not alone, darling. It might feel like it sometimes, but we do care. Someone will always be there for you. Stay strong, sunshine.