Cutting is when someone takes something sharp, like a razor, knife, scissors or piece of glass, and runs it along a part of their body, usually to the point of bleeding or bruising.

Most cuts are made on arms, wrists and legs. Sometimes, people cut their chest, stomach, face, neck, breasts or genitals. Cutting on the arms and wrists is the most common because it’s often easier to make up excuses for marks on these parts of the body, something like "My cat scratched me," or "I had an accident in the kitchen."

Cutting is a form of self-injury, or self-mutilation. Some people also call it slashing or slicing.

Besides cutting, people may hurt themselves in other ways, including scratching, burning skin with a lighter, punching or headbutting.

Why do people cut?
For most people, it’s hard to understand why anyone would intentionally hurt themselves. But, for those who cut, there are a few reasons.

No matter the reason, cutting is a serious, dangerous behavior, and may be a sign of another problem.

Many people who cut themselves also have an eating disorder like anorexia or bulimia. Some may be experiencing depression. Others may have been sexually or physically abused.

Is cutting a suicide attempt?
Usually, people who cut aren't trying to kill themselves. At the same time, cutting can be life-threatening. In fact, sometimes, people can’t control the injury and die accidentally.