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Published on: 1/31/2025

What Is the Self-Harm on Wrist?

Wrist Cut Syndrome refers to a pattern of self-harm where individuals intentionally cut their wrists. This behavior can be associated with both suicidal and non-suicidal self-injury. Understanding its characteristics and underlying motivations is crucial for effective intervention and support.

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Explanation

Definition and Context:

Wrist Cut Syndrome is not a formal medical diagnosis but rather a term used to describe the act of cutting the wrists as a form of self-harm. This behavior can occur in various contexts, including as a means of coping with emotional distress, expressing pain, or attempting to communicate feelings of hopelessness.

Patterns of Self-Harm:

Research indicates that wrist cutting can be part of a broader pattern of self-injury. Individuals may engage in wrist cutting for different reasons, such as coping with overwhelming emotions or as a cry for help. This behavior can serve as a way to express feelings that are difficult to articulate.

Psychological Factors:

Wrist Cut Syndrome is often linked to underlying psychological issues, such as depression, anxiety, or trauma. Individuals who self-harm may struggle with feelings of worthlessness, emotional pain, or a sense of being out of control. Engaging in self-injury can provide temporary relief from these feelings, but it often leads to a cycle of guilt and shame.

How to Seek Help:

If you or someone you know is engaging in self-harm, help is available. Contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988, or visit 988lifeline.org for support and resources. Reaching out is a vital step toward healing and finding hope.

(References)

  • Cho J, Choi Y. Patterns of wrist cutting: A retrospective analysis of 115 suicide attempts. Arch Plast Surg. 2020 May;47(3):250-255. doi: 10.5999/aps.2020.00059. Epub 2020 May 15. PMID: 32453934; PMCID: PMC7264911.

  • Park HY, Kim YC, Park SC, Cho YJ, Sur YJ. Comparison of the demographic and wound characteristics of non-suicidal and suicidal self-wrist cutting injuries. Medicine (Baltimore). 2020 Feb;99(8):e19298. doi: 10.1097/MD.0000000000019298. PMID: 32080147; PMCID: PMC7034739.

  • Skegg K. Self-harm. Lancet. 2005 Oct 22-28;366(9495):1471-83. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(05)67600-3. PMID: 16243093.

  • Cipriano A, Cella S, Cotrufo P. Nonsuicidal Self-injury: A Systematic Review. Front Psychol. 2017 Nov 8;8:1946. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2017.01946. PMID: 29167651; PMCID: PMC5682335.

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Self-harm / wrist-cutting

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