[katelyn1019]

You know how high school locker rooms work, well usually I would take my clothes to a bathroom stall and change but for some strange reason today I just forgot to and started to change in front of the other girls who were also changing. Nobody noticed anything on my thighs until the last second when I was putting on my pants. The girl right next to me looked at my thigh for a split second, but did a double take and flat out stared at all my cuts. I quickly pulled my pants up and got the hell out of there but I can't help but feel like she is going to tell my gym teacher and my gym teacher is going to call my parents. So far nobody new about my self-harming and I intended on keeping it that way. My anxiety is killing me because every time the phone rings I think its my principal or something who is going to tell my parents everything. I don't know if I can take this anymore.

[tealBumblebee]

Hi darling,

First off, let me say that I am so sorry that this happened. I know, all to well, about awaiting the dreaded phone call - the anxiety, fear, talking yourself into not caring, and then wanting to burst into tears, stomach dropping - I get it.

Right now, you're at a crossroads. This really can go many many ways. 1) the girl can tell a teacher who would notify the guidance counselor who would notify you and your parents (What happened to me). 2) the girl could tell a peer who could possibly tell another, and the staring could intensify. 3) the girl can keep to herself and not tell anyone. I think that option just can not help you in any way. I think that option 3 would help you until you have the courage to share your struggle with an adult who can help you. But I also think that option 1, even with its many complications with the parents and questions, and reactions, wouldn't be a bad idea because suffering in silence is a terrible burden and it being in the light is an opportunity to change your life (almost as if it doesn't get any worse than this - no where to go but up).

Whatever happens, the best thing I can tell you is to be prepared. The anxiety likely won't shed until you know that something or nothing is going to happen - and at this moment its out of your hands honestly. In my two cases, I was pulled out of class and then in the other the staff was there to meet me right when getting off the bus to school. I CAN tell you that freaking out just is not going to help.

This is a time where you need to be vigilant and wise, and also maybe consider the benefits of however the situation turns out. I know its sucky, and no amount of words will make you feel better right now. If you need someone to talk to, feel free to PM me, and either way you'll be in my thoughts.

[Victoria'smom]

You know she may not say anything as she maybe a cutter too.

[ombrétwilight]

Could you talk to her and see what she intends to do? I refused to change in front of my class for this exact reason. My cuts were on my arms though, so they saw them anyway. My principal and guidance counsellor did contact my parents but for another more serious reason (even though the latter knew about the cutting) so I understand the feeling of dread, anxiety and despair. Good luck and I hope you get through this safely.

[ifst5]

She won't necessarily say anything - i've not known many particularly caring teenage girls. If you're that worried maybe speak to her but i wouldn't advise it, the whole thing could blow up. Wait and see what happens, i shouldn't think your gym teacher would just call your parents without speaking to you first - they're there to pass on accurate information, not cause problems. If they do ask you anything you can just mention it's an old sporting injury or something - you won't need to show them and they have no right to ask to see anything either.

Try not to worry, this may well be a storm in a tea cup.