Cutting?

[Anon16]

How bad is it? Or, rather,what is the churches viewpoint on it? I have recently started doing this over the past 3 days. Not deep cuts, I'm too much of a wimp to do that. Its merely just until I draw blood and then I stop. Small, shallow cuts.

My reasoning is this. I'm currently struggling with masturbation and pornography. For whatever reason, I've had a lot of issues with that, more so then I have had since I started - and it escalated more. I met with my Bishop to try to work it out - so I could get back to making progress, instead of going backwards.

On Thursday, was when I started. It distracted me so that I wouldn't masturbate. In some ways, I'm using this as a replacement - but I'm looking at it more of a temporary measure until I'm a little more stable in that area. I hate pain, and I hate doing this - but it works as a coping method. If I focus on the pain, I don't focus on the desire.

I really don't want to be seen as doing it for attention,part of me wonders if I am. Which is why I'm working at doing it in places that aren't visible. I started on my arm, and as a result had to wear long sleeves, was constantly paranoid that they'd ride up, etc.

So, how bad is it? I don't really like it, but it gets the job done.

[Just_A_Guy]

I'm pretty anti-masturbation; but I'm not convinced that cutting's much of an improvement. IMHO you need to learn a better coping strategy.

Are you involved in some kind of therapy/counseling/group for the masturbation, other than the bishop's counseling? If not, I'd suggest that you get involved. Here are a couple of useful links:

LDS Addiction Recovery Program (and manual)

Book: Confronting Pornography

[Martain]

Oh Anon,

You ask how bad it is which means you already recognize that there is something wrong with it. I confirm what you already on some level know, the logic you gave above was not of God. I foresee where such a path as above would lead. My brother, it leads to you leaving the Church and the faith and becoming swallowed up in your sins.

Please, trust me, you don't want to go down that path. There is healing and the atonement does have the power to free you from the chains of these addictions. Christ loves you and his power is greater than the devil. It is not to the pain you should turn but to the Lord your God.

Please, please go see your Bishop. Please tell him what you told us and ask for his help. Anon, I want to help you too and feel I have a book that will do so. I'd like to send you a free copy if you're willing. Can I send it to you?

[MorningStar]

You're just trading one escape for another escape. Are you going to counseling?

[FairChild]

Why are you cutting? It's because you are struggling with pain. Counseling can help. One thing that helped me was writing a list of other activities. One of them was using a gel pen and writing on my arm instead. I had to learn that everyone struggles with their own problems. I often judged myself believing that I was so much a lesser person than I thought others were. Took me a long time to understand that I too am one of Heavenly Father's most beloved children. You are too. Don't quit. Allow yourself some self soothing comforts. Scriptures, music, prayer, and service to others are among many things you can do.

[changed]

I agree with what everyone else has said - find a new coping mechanism, a healthy one! Have you tried exercise? Get outside, and go for a nice long run - exercise can release built up tension/stress, it releases endorphins, running does wonders - you really can run away from your troubles!

[MarginOfError]

Originally Posted by MorningStar

You're just trading one escape for another escape. Are you going to counseling?

This is key. I have no intention to be mean, but you need professional help.

[rameumptom]

Try using a rubber band, instead. Keep it on your wrist, and when tempted, give yourself a flick. It will be painful enough without leaving any scars, etc. You do not want to replace one very bad thing with another very bad thing.

[anatess]

Originally Posted by changed

I agree with what everyone else has said - find a new coping mechanism, a healthy one! Have you tried exercise? Get outside, and go for a nice long run - exercise can release built up tension/stress, it releases endorphins, running does wonders - you really can run away from your troubles!

Definitely try this one! Make it an event even - as in, make exercise a daily challenge for you. Go sign up for a 5K run 3 months down the road then work towards being able to run 5K in 3 months! Buy brand new running shoes and everything. Find a running partner that you're going to support throughout the event - to get both of you going.

Yeah, running/exercise is a great way to channel all that sexual energy. But, if you have a sexual addiction, it won't really stop it, it will only make the urges not as strong. So yeah, counselling is still recommended.

Don't cut yourself. That's a habit that may be a lot harder to stop later. It might not remain as temporary as you think it will be. Self-mutilation is never good.

Prayer is always a good thing to do. When you feel the sexual urge and you can't go running, sing "The Spirit of God". On the top of your lungs if you have to.

[Timpman]

Bro, the LDS Addiction Recovery Program is your friend.