Cutting?

[Timpman]

Oh, here's an important source:

Before marriage, do not do anything to arouse the
powerful emotions that must be expressed only in
marriage. Do not participate in passionate kissing, lie
on top of another person, or touch the private, sacred
parts of another person’s body, with or without clothing.
Do not allow anyone to do that with you. Do not arouse
those emotions in your own body.
http://www.lds.org/Static%20Files/PD..._36550_eng.pdf (I added emphasis)

[beefche]

Please don't derail this thread into a debate about the LDS definition of LoC and masturbation. One thread was already closed on that subject.

[Timpman]

The OP has made this thread about how bad masturbation and cutting are. We are very ON TOPIC.

[beefche]

As a moderator, I am telling you and others to NOT discuss in this thread the Church's stance on LoC and how masturbation fits into that. This thread is about this young person's issues, not a heated debate that has already caused one thread to be closed.

[mhsmd]

Why are we debating which is worse? Both are wrong. Just because is wronger doesn't make the other okayer. Seems like a pointless discussion. Both commandments against masturbation and cutting are rooted in respect for the bodies that God has given us. Cutting stems from unnatural conditions, like depression, that can be treated. Masturbation comes from the perfectly natural desire for sexual intimacy, but ignores the purpose which is to create life and strengthen a marriage.

To the OP of the thread: It seems that you are simply replacing a sin with another. What you need to do is repent. Try the addiction recovery program in the church. It's really, really amazing. There is a special meeting for those addicted to pornography. It will help you sort out the source of what is causing you to sin and help you forgive yourself. The other people there know what you're going through, and they are only going to help you. I would also suggest that, instead of causing yourself pain in order to distract yourself from the desire, you should go for a walk or run, or at least go somewhere public. The temptation eventually passes, and it eventually becomes easier to resist. I started journaling, praying and running every morning before 8 hour shifts on my feet at work. Then I would hang out with friends most nights. Once I was home, I was in my bed and out like a light! And I felt so good! I started that routine after hitting absolute rock bottom. I suggest trying it before that point.

[SoCal_Counselor]

I don't think the problem is with either cutting or masturbation. Cutting/masturbation are what you are using as coping mechanisms for dealing with a deeper rooted problem. That problem could be related to previous trauma or abuse. It could be related to interactions you have had (or are still having) with family members, friends, or others. If you don't feel like you can talk with a counselor or your bishop, could you talk to one of your young woman's leaders or anyone else? Talking on a forum can be helpful, but you also need to talk with someone in person, someone who loves you and with whom you can trust.

I am not going to answer which is worse but I will say that there are healthier means of coping that don't involve cutting or masturbation. Counseling can help you identify what the actual problem might be. A counselor, bishop, young woman's leader, etc. might be able to help you identify other possible solutions and coping mechanisms for this problem.

[gmaxx0071]

Try replacing bad thoughts with good thoughts. Make reading the B of M a daily habit, sing hymns to fill your mind with positive spiritual thoughts. Part of your addiction is about the habit itself, so create new good habits that replace the old bad habits.

[Anon16]

Just wanted to say thank you for all of your helpful comments.

[White_Deer]

Please seek counseling. Harming yourself because of masturbation isn't healthy. If you feel masturbation is wrong then go for a jog, do situps, pullups, whatever. Cutting yourself is not the way to cope.