How do I help my friend?

Question

I have a friend and she has been cutting herself for a while. She acts like it's no big deal because she does it on her sholders, not her wrists, so she thinks that no one should worry. But still, she does it deep and after she cuts it bleeds for a long time and she can feel it burning for about 5 hours after each cut. She has had numerous friends try to help her but they all just end up getting mad and giving up because they think she's hopeless. I, on the other hand, know her better, and I know that if someone just knew how to help her deal with things and gave her enough time to try and stop, that she could get through it. But the problem is, how do I help her? I won't give up but I really have no idea what I could say to her.

Answer 1

I have on occasion done this too, although I do it on my thighs. It is a sickness, it is not something you alone can fix, you can support her and be there for her but she needs serious help. I am not sure how old she is, but if young enough, tell her parents. If she is older then I would still contact someone in her family and see if you all can't get together and talk to her about this. That is great that you are not giving up on her, do whatever you can to get her help or to get her to help herself. Good luck with it.

Answer 2

Ask her about her problems. If she doesn't open up, share some of your griefs and misfortunes. Try to help her appreciate the priviledges she gets like freedom, a house, education, etc. Just pour your feelings to her and she'll pour hers back. Maybe you may find some comfort in the fact that if your at your lowest, everything from there on will get better. How much better does the honey taste when you've been fed dirt? Be a true friend to her and make her feel like she means something to you. And if you want to start the conversation just start out with: "How's life?" or "What's wrong?" Those phrases are sure to get something going. Hope I helped you and your friend.

Answer 3

Start by looking up 'borderline personality disorder'. Also tell her parents because this one doesn't go away by itself, but it is most definitely treatable.