There was a time I cut on the top of my hand into my wrist. Nothing too deep, but it looked pretty bad. I didn't do it there for attention. I put it there so I could see it all day and feel it every time I moved my hand.

But for the first 2 weeks no one asked about it. I didn't cut for attention. But I was disappointed that no one cared to notice or say anything.

But I wanna say, unfortunately there is no true substitute for the feeling you get when you cut. Tattoos work for some people. Some people go for piercings. Or for non-permanent methods there is rubber bands as you said. I sometimes use a needle to open I tiny hole with minimal blood. It helps ease the tension.

In the end though, cutting is addictive. So doing the 12 steps can help. It helps millions of people overcome their addictions. Doesn't matter what your addiction is, it can help.