Just completed and submitted an article to a magazine on self-injury—talking about the hidden hurts and the dilemma for those of us who want to help.
I think the first step is . . . be available.
Do you know someone who is self-injuring? Someone who has thought about it? If so, consider checking out my February 6th blog entry on my author site called self-injury—helping teens. (Once you’re there, scroll down just a bit.)
And if you have questions, comments, or experiences you want to share, something you’ve discovered—either as someone who has struggled or someone who has been an encourager—please feel free to leave a comment here or write me privately.
Available.
Jan
4 comments:
Hi Jan,
I am glad that you are dealing with the topic of self-injury head on. I don't know if you've been following the Amy Winehouse story, but the talented, but very troubled singer showed up late for her first concert after completing rehab for alcohol and drugs and apparently is still in trouble. Those in attendance at the concert saw recent cut marks on one of Winehouse's arms and bandages on the other hand. I had not heard about Winehouse being a "cutter", but it's not uncommon for someone to exchange one addictive behavior for another, particularly if a serious mental health issue is involved. I know Amy Winehouse is idolized by many young people and it worries me that they might decide to emulate her by copying this self-destructive behavior.
Great point.
I'm guessing with the downward spirals of some of the recent idols, teens are rethinking who they want to admire.
And yet plenty latch on to favorites, like Amy Winehouse, and want to be like them any way they can. That can become a problem, even tilting toward dangerous, when the person they're admiring is self-destructive.
So this could be a good discussion point.
I'm wondering about those who might be reading this.
How influenced are you by the divas and stars out there?
What advice would you give other teens and friends about who they look up to?
Jan
Great point.
I'm guessing with the downward spirals of some of the recent idols, teens are rethinking who they want to admire.
And yet plenty latch on to favorites, like Amy Winehouse, and want to be like them any way they can. That can become a problem, even tilting toward dangerous, when the person they're admiring is self-destructive.
So this could be a good discussion point.
I'm wondering about those who might be reading this.
How influenced are you by the divas and stars out there?
What advice would you give other teens and friends about who they look up to?
Jan
I've cut myself before. And i'm not proud of it. I just could not handle my situation. I was lost and confused....and I know it didn't honor God, but he said he would help me through it all.
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