On Self-Injury..........
Being a SIer, a nurse and a researcher on mental health behavior on the side; there are 3 main points that I always try to beat into the heads of ignorant Dr's & nurses at ER's.

#1) SI is not done for attention
#2) SI is not a suicidal gesture
#3) SI is a form of release; a way of coping w/ excessive stress, depression (to AVOID suicide) & anxiety.

So far, I've been pretty successful; If it's put out in front of them in a short order like above in a somewhat rational mood (I realize if you have to go to the ER it's pretty hard to remain rational......especially when ER staff stick a gigantic amount of stigma to SIer's; they look at us as a "pain in the ***" "taking up time away from REAL patients" and many times are not even numbed properly when staples and/or sutures are needed) I am working w/ an advocacy group working for the "rights of SIers in the healthcare system" Being an ex-member of that system -- I know patient rights & I see a great violation going on! I'm sure there are some of you all can relate in one way or another.

As far as "Self-Mutilation" goes; I admit, it sounds like you take ice picks and chainsaws to ourselves but it's referred to many things depending on where you live. But we all know, bottom line what it's all about........so relax...

Today being Vet's Day -- my SI early this a.m. was after writing in my journal about how the military screws ppl's minds over, including mine; that was like a sacrifical "blood-letting" and I am sorry if I "triggered" or offended anyone.

DAYZEE9