The way I understand it when we cut ourself the bodies response is to release endorphins into the blood stream. This provides a certain self medicating effect. Many people say they actually feel better. Now that I look back alcohol which is a depressant brought down to a certain extent my mania. Like cutting it was purposeful. Unfortunately it may have been a significant factor leading to my alcoholism. Self mutilation may provide a release BUT like alcoholism it does not lead to emotional healing just a temporary release reinforcing despair. My daughter is a cutter also but we keep talking to one another when she is in crisis and that seems to help a lot. Exercise helps me so much. The body releases feel good chemicals that provide a natural high.I wish I had been more active because I am now diabetic. What is so difficult for me is to be consistent with my exercise and eating.