[azizaAkos]

So I am wanting to see if it is safe to tell a therapist you cut? Not that I'm ready to tell them any such thing but on the off change they notice a scar etc I doubt I can effectively lie and I don't like doing any such thing. I know they give the speach about being a threat or danger to yourself so wouldn't self harm fall into those lines or am I wrong? I also have to see a gp whom I'm pretty sure will see the scars and cuts because I need to see why I have trouble feeling my hands and arms at times. Though my legs are much more marked then my arms because of the warm weather and I had someOne question and it caused a bunch of anxiety. I'm also worried the gp won't take me seriously over something that has caused me much anxiety and triggered me to cut.

[Sannah]

Let us know how it goes?

[tomboy2011]

i have told my T i cut and she didnt do anything but try and help u can pm me if u wish

[mazing]

I would have a chat to your T first about the kinds of things that they would need to report as therapists have different ideas. However, non-suicidal SI is normally not something that therapists will report.

Most therapists should understand that SI isnot an attempt at suicide or a real threat to your health, unless it becomes extreme. Most therapists will use it as an opportunity to start talking about the reasons you feel you need to SI and help work through those emotions.

[azizaAkos]

I think your suggesting to ask for details on what he needs to report is a good idea. I know when I was in the er last doctor asked and I was honest but her reaction wasn't good and I think she was much less willing to listen or help me with another non related problem.
I cut just to cope and to try to prevent myself from completely panicking and going off the deepend I can't truely see it as horrible when it help at the time. The bad is how others react and look at me. Also trying to hide the marks can be hard.

[mazing]

Unfortunately many health professionals still don't understand SI and treat it as the same as suicide attempt, or just wanting attention.

And I can understand not seeing SI as horrible - it is a coping mechanism like any other and one I used myself for many years. It does help you get through. The danger for me comes when there is a complete dependence on it. When it becomes the only way someone can cope with difficult situations. It can become an addiction, almost as strong as alcohol or drugs, or at least was in my case.

Good luck with your therapist