What Causes Self-Mutilation And What Can Be Done About It?

QUESTION:

Dear Dr. Heller,

I would like to have some information on self-mutilation and I would like to know if you possibly have anything on your site.  What are the illnesses that would cause self mutilation and what can prevent it?  Please help me - this is needed ASAP.

Thank You!

ANSWER:

With rare exception, self-mutilation is part of the BPD.  Borderlines who are experiencing severe dysphoria (anxiety, rage, depression and despair) or suicidal tendencies sometimes find that ripping the skin with a sharp object in a linear manner stops those sensations.  Sometimes burns accomplish the same goal - stopping the dysphoria.

Having as-needed medications for dysphoria makes the biggest difference.  Borderlines want the pain to go away and will do whatever it takes to get there.  http://www.BiologicalUnhappiness.com/20a.htm and http://www.BiologicalUnhappiness.com/dysphori.htm explain the medicine regimen I recommend for my patients.