Ask Sam
Cutting... a poor way to manage anger
Dear Sam: I have been very depressed lately and have starting cutting myself. I know it’s wrong, but I can’t stop. It makes me feel better. I don’t know what else to do to release my anger.
Help Me!
Cutting (self-injury, SI, mutilation, burning etc.) is very deceiving. It makes you feel better about your situation, but the truth is, the real problem isn’t fixed. Cutting actually multiplies your problems because it’s addictive. It also leaves scars, which make you feel even worse about yourself.
Below are some tips for dealing with anger, but you really need to talk to someone. A counsellor can help you with other coping strategies for your situation. Please tell your mom or dad, your youth pastor, an aunt, or a teacher that you need some help.
Tips for Dealing with Anger
- Do not magnify the issue. Your situation may be frustrating, but it’s not the worst thing that could ever happen to you.
- Do not over generalize. Try to avoid using words like “always, never, everybody and nobody.” Put it in the right perspective.
- Do not demand your own way. So what if you don’t get what you want? There really is no reason that it has to be done exactly like you think it should be, except that you want it that way.
YOU ARE NOT ALONE,
Sam
Sam
