That really stinks! SI by itself is not grounds for hospitalization, unless you are doing so much damage that your life is threatened. So the counseling center won't even work with you? Are you sure about that? What if you tell them not that you plan to continue, but that you will work with them towards an end goal of recovery? Would that make a difference? I think it is important to be able to be honest, but you should not be denied either counseling and/or an education on this basis!!! This is really making me mad! What if you went to therapy and were not specific about the cutting? Universities have counseling centers to help the students, not to deny you resources that could help you.

Ok, as to your friend, if he is willing to talk to you this and help you through it, then, yes, tell him as much as you feel that he can handle. Find as much information as you can first, so that you will be able to answer his questions. I'd really rather that he were not your only support - that sounds pretty risky to me - but that's better than no support, isn't it? Writing him a letter is a good idea too.

You don't need to worry about how long your posts are here. Talk as much as you need to!