[Fiminean]

Hi! Sorry, I hope this is the right spot. I'm 16 and for the last few days I've gotten myself into the habit of snapping a rubber band (not too gently) on my wrist (it's frustrating that it's hard to get welts). I did it originally because at work, I get really nervous sometimes. So when that happens, maybe a snap to the wrist will sort it out.

One of my coworkers, whom I really like (as a friend, he's twice my age) noticed this and asked if I had scars and if I was okay.

Last night, I took a paper clip and dragged it on my arm (hard enough to draw blood, but not bad. Just scratches, like less than if a cat were to scratch you). I know that when I was checking the weather, I wondered if I should have my sleeves down, so no one sees the marks, but then how would [concerned coworker] see them? Yeah... I want his attention. Apparently.

I don't know why I did it, and I have skin that scars easy so not sure what'll happen with the marks (but I do not mind scars...). I should be bothered by this? I didn't post this in self injury because I didn't want to offend anyone with an actual issue. I do not think it's cool and I know it's serious. I think I was genuinely curious to see how much it'd hurt and how much force I'd need.

Yikes.

[Skeezyks]

Hello Fiminean: I see this is your first post here on PC. So... welcome to PsychCentral… from the Skeezyks! I hope you find the time you spend here to be of benefit.

With regard to your post, I would just say that the type of thing you are doing is mildly self-abusive. So far what you're doing isn't dangerous. So it may or may not be of any great concern. Self-abuse, however, can be addictive & can lead to more-&-more extreme behaviors. So, from my perspective, while I wouldn't become too overly concerned about this at the present time, if you find that you continue to do it, & can't stop, & especially if it begins to get more intensive, then please reach out for help in real life. See a counselor or therapist. Do whatever you need to do in order to resolve what it is that is driving you to do harm to yourself.

PsychCentral is a great place to get information as well as support for mental health issues. There are many knowledgeable & caring members here. The more you post, & reply to other members’ posts, the more a part of the community you will become. Plus there are social groups you can join & chat rooms where you’ll be able to connect with other PC members in real time (once your first 5 posts have been reviewed & approved.) Lots of great stuff! So please keep posting!

[Fiminean]

Originally Posted by Skeezyks

Hello Fiminean: I see this is your first post here on PC. So... welcome to PsychCentral… from the Skeezyks! I hope you find the time you spend here to be of benefit.

With regard to your post, I would just say that the type of thing you are doing is mildly self-abusive. So far what you're doing isn't dangerous. So it may or may not be of any great concern. Self-abuse, however, can be addictive & can lead to more-&-more extreme behaviors. So, from my perspective, while I wouldn't become too overly concerned about this at the present time, if you find that you continue to do it, & can't stop, & especially if it begins to get more intensive, then please reach out for help in real life. See a counselor or therapist. Do whatever you need to do in order to resolve what it is that is driving you to do harm to yourself.

PsychCentral is a great place to get information as well as support for mental health issues. There are many knowledgeable & caring members here. The more you post, & reply to other members’ posts, the more a part of the community you will become. Plus there are social groups you can join & chat rooms where you’ll be able to connect with other PC members in real time (once your first 5 posts have been reviewed & approved.) Lots of great stuff! So please keep posting!

Okay. I see what you're saying. Thank you for your input! I'm concerned it'll take a step into the dangerous side, I'll see if I can figure out what's up. Thank you so much!