Why does my girlfriend cut herself?

That is a really good question. The act of self-harm is usually grounded in feeling "out of control." Emotional issues and at times a history of sexual abuse are reasons for self-harm and feeling out of control. This does not mean that this is her reasons but it is okay to ask her how you can help.

People cut themselves for different reasons. You should try to talk to her and ask her why is she cutting

There is really no one reason for self harm. At it's core it is a coping mechanism for the brain. Ultimately a person needs to learn better ways to cope with their feelings and emotions. Regularly talking in depth with someone is a great start.

She could be depressed or just hurting on the inside. When I used to cut and people would ask me why I’d say “So the outside of my body could feel like the inside.” Then people would ask what did I feel then I’d reply “hurt” or she could just like seeing the blood. I’m not too sure tho, if I were you I’d take her to a mental health specialist. It’s best for her to get treatment for cutting. If not one of the wounds could get infected or she could cut too deep, or just so many different things could happen.

People cut for many different reasons. I will give some examples. Some people cut themselves, because when they were young that have had some traumatic event like: sexual assault, death of a familly member. So this is their way of dealing with the pain and the memories. It makes them feel good, because this is the only pain they can control. Others do it, because they feel lonely...they feel like no one understands them and they cant turn to anyone, when they need help and support. Somehow the knife or whatever they are using is always there for them and the more they do it, the more they realise that they need it to feel less alone. As for your girlfriend, i think you should talk to her, show some understanding, try to understand why she is doing it. If things got out of control, you should immediately talk to an adult, like her parents or some kind of therapist.

People self harm for many different reasons. Self harm can release all of the negative thoughts someone may be feeling. Have you spoken to your girlfriend about what may be currently bothering or upsetting her in her life? Often people self harm so that they can feel something. When the world feels numb and difficult to handle, self harm can bring back that control. Sometimes it can feel like it's the only thing someone can have control over in their life and sometimes people feel more relieved after self harming. There are many different reasons someone may be harming, talking to them and letting them know that you're there for them can be a big help.

This is quite a hard question to answer, and probably something you should sit down and have a conversation with about. For someone who has not suffered or had past experience with self harm, it can appear daunting and confusing. There are many ways for someone to self harm, including cutting, burning, bruising and even the individual forcing themselves into situations they are uncomfortable with. As there are many ways people harm themselves, there are also many reasons for someone to harm themselves, or feel the need to, and sometimes it becomes a habit or addiction. The only way to find out the reason is to sit down with her in a private space where she feels safe and to have a conversation. Make sure she knows that she is loved and that you will help her through this if she wants help. Don't push her on the subject, she will talk when she's ready, just let her know that you are there for her.

People cut for many different reasons, some do it to gain control and others do it to regain feelings. From personal experience I know that cutting may seem like the only way to regain the feeling or power that depression, anxiety and other mental disorders can cause the loss of. For example depression for some can make you feel numb and alone, so people may cut to feel human again. Your girl friend may cut for a number of reasons but it may be a good idea just to ask why and how you can help. At first you may be pushed away but its important to stay close and let her know you care

It may seem strange to outsiders, but to the person who harms themselves cutting may serve many purposes. It can get you out of your head when you are trapped in a lot of emotional pain. It can also be used to feel something-anything at all-when you otherwise feel empty and dead inside. It can be a reminder that you are alive and real and a way to escape without committing suicide. Please try to remember that your girlfriend is likely not proud of what she does but will use anything she can not to be in so much emotional pain. She just needs love and support even if it’s difficult to understand. Blame, anger, ultimatums or telling her stop will only increase her guilt and shame.

Some people cut themselves because it acts as a release of pent up emotions. While it may not necessarily be healthy, it is definitely a way some people cope with their emotions, and people who cut themselves should be treated with the same amount of respect as any normal person. True, it is better to change their habits, but do not tell them that you are ashamed of them for it. If anything, that will encourage her to cut more. Instead, it is better to be understanding of her. She cuts herself because it helps her feel better, as odd as it sounds. It gives her a way out if things get rough, for lack of a better way to say it.