Self-Injury and Cutting

When the Hurt Turns Inward: A Compassionate Look at Self-Injury

“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”—Psalm 147:3 (NLT)

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Sometimes the pain inside grows so loud, so relentless, that it seems like the only way to quiet it is to make it visible.

 

Not because someone wants to die—
But because they’re desperate to feel something real…
To let the pain out…
To cope, even if the method wounds instead of heals.

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If this sounds familiar, please know: you’re not alone, and you’re not beyond help.

 

At Still Waters Counseling, we walk gently with those who are struggling with non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI)—a deeply misunderstood but very real way some people try to manage emotional pain. And though it brings temporary relief, it often leaves behind deeper wounds: guilt, shame, isolation, and sometimes, even scars.

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What Is Self-Injury?

Self-injury is the act of deliberately hurting your body without suicidal intent. It’s not about wanting to die—it’s about trying to survive emotions that feel unbearable. For many, it becomes a way to:

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• Release overwhelming feelings like anxiety, anger, or self-hatred

• Distract from emotional numbness or internal chaos

• Regain a sense of control

• Express inner turmoil in a visible way

• Punish themselves for perceived failures

 

This behavior often happens in secret and may take many forms—cutting, burning, scratching, hitting, or even inserting objects under the skin. The most common areas are arms, legs, and torso, though it can happen anywhere.

 

Signs That Someone May Be Self-Injuring

• Frequent unexplained cuts, scratches, or burns

• Wearing long sleeves in hot weather

• Keeping sharp objects nearby

• Expressing feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness

• Strained or unstable relationships

• Sudden shifts in mood or behavior

 

If you’re a parent, friend, or teacher and notice these signs, your response matters. Don’t panic. Don’t shame. Just start with presence and compassion. Ask. Listen. And then help them take the next step toward healing.

 

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” —Galatians 6:2 (NIV)

 

Why Do People Self-Injure?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but common roots include:

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• Poor coping skills – not knowing how else to handle emotional pain

• Trauma or abuse – past wounds that still bleed beneath the surface

• Mental health challenges – such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, or personality disorders

• Peer influence – especially among teens and young adults

• Feelings of isolation – when someone feels alone or misunderstood

 

For some, self-injury starts during middle school or high school. For others, it shows up later during seasons of intense emotional pressure. Regardless of age or background, what’s true for all is this: God sees. God knows. God cares.

 

The Spiritual Side of Pain

The Bible doesn’t ignore suffering—it meets us in it. From Job’s anguish to David’s desperate Psalms, Scripture is filled with people who felt overwhelmed, alone, and undone. And yet God didn’t turn away. He leaned in. He responded.

 

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; He rescues those whose spirits are crushed.” —Psalm 34:18 (NLT)

 

Our pain doesn’t disqualify us from God’s presence. If anything, it invites Him nearer. And healing—real, lasting healing—often begins when we bring what’s hidden into the light.

 

Complications and Risks

While many who self-injure don’t intend to take their own life, the emotional weight behind these actions can increase the risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Left untreated, self-harm can lead to:

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• Infections

• Scarring

• Emotional dependency on the behavior

• Deeper shame and secrecy

• Worsening mental health

 

But there is hope. Self-injury is a coping strategy, not a character flaw. And unhelpful coping strategies can be replaced with healthier, life-giving ones—with help, support, and God’s grace.

 

How to Help Someone You Love

If someone you care about is self-injuring:

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• Stay calm. Your steady presence matters more than perfect words.

• Gently express concern. Let them know you’re there, without judgment.

• Encourage professional help. A counselor or therapist trained in self-harm recovery can help them find safer ways to cope.

• Don’t carry it alone. Especially with teens, involve other trusted adults, healthcare providers, or school counselors.

• Pray. Bring their name before the God who heals.

 

Still Waters Is a Place for Healing

At Still Waters Counseling, we believe in the redemptive power of truth, connection, and compassion. We offer:

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• Individual therapy (in-person and online)

• Faith-integrated approaches to self-injury recovery

• Trauma-informed care

• Support for families and loved ones

 

We’ve seen what happens when hurting people find safe spaces to speak, cry, and begin again. And we believe God is still in the business of restoring what’s been broken.

 

If you or someone you love is struggling, let’s talk.

There’s no shame in asking for help.

There is only grace waiting to meet you there.