Dear Dr. Karyn,
I suspect my daughter is cutting herself and I'm terrified. What do you recommend I do?

Answer:
Adolescents who cut themselves, also known as "cutters", do so because it is a coping mechanism. Teens that cut are experiencing so much emotional anguish that, by hurting themselves physically, they numb the emotional pain they’re feeling. It acts as a powerful distraction. However, teens will often feel guilty, embarrassed and ashamed of their behaviour later. Teens that cut tend to be sensitive and highly aware of other people’s emotions. If you suspect your daughter is cutting herself, I recommend you see your doctor first. Get your doctor to recommend a counselor who specializes in working with teens - someone who can coach your daughter about how to deal with her emotions. Once a teen learns how to release their emotions in a positive way, their need to cut should drastically decrease.