Reader’s Question

I am a 14-year-old girl who has started self harming! Today I cut and it would not stop bleeding. I want to give up on life and I have no one to talk to. What do I do?

Our Clinical Psychologist’s Reply

What do I do? Begin by talking to a responsible adult. Most teens begin with their parents. Sit down and discuss your depression with them. Depression causes people to want to give up on life — not cutting. Depression causes the loneliness you feel — not the cutting. Self-harm is extremely dangerous and should be stopped immediately.

If you are uncomfortable discussing your depression and self-harm with your parents, you can get an adult representative — another adult who can bring your depression to the attention of your parents. Many teens discuss their concerns with a guidance counselor, pastor, church youth leader, grandparents, trusted aunts or uncles, and teachers. Many communities have a “hotline” phone to call in the event of a mental health emergency.

Depression is common in teenagers. You might want to review some of the depression articles on this website. Take a depression test. Educate yourself about depression. Importantly, depression can be treated, but you should act as soon as possible.