I used to cut a year or so ago. Since then, sometimes I will just dig my nails into my skin (not making a cut or anything) or slap my arm almost instinctly. Is that self-injury? I've always felt that was okay.

[Rapunzel]

My feeling is that your intent has a lot to do with it. What does it mean to you?

One definition I have seen states that anything you do intentionally for the purpose of coping with your emotions, that leaves a mark that lasts for at least 15 minutes is self-injury.

Who decides if it is okay or not? Isn't it your choice? The bottom line as far as I am concerned is how you feel about it.

<font color=orange>"Never forget: 2 + 2 = 5 for extremely large values of 2."</font color=orange>

hmmmm What does it mean? It means im frustrated and angry and in a self-punishing mood. I guess I feel like its okay because no one else would know. i don't have to worry about marks. But I should be more concerned about what its doing to me. argh.

Thanks, Rap

[SweetCrusader]

I've seen a lot of different definitions on self-injury. But the points that almost all have agreed on are:

-It's done to help cope with some emotion
-It is purposefully causing harm to your body
-It is not done for decorative purposes only (such as body piercing)

Some people include drug and alcohol abuse, unsafe sex, etc. in their definitions. As Rapunzel said, it has a lot to do with intent.

I would agree that what you are doing is self-injury.

Take care!
SweetCrusader

"Blessed be the cracked, for they let in the light"
-Author Unknown