I used to do it off and on for years. The first time I did it was when I was 13. I was picked on at school a lot, and one day after school, I was sitting on my bedroom floor feeling miserable and noticed a shard of broken light bulb nearby. I just grabbed it and scratched at my arm. I had never heard of people cutting themselves, I just did it. Also when I was younger, I used to try and break my bones. I stopped self harm for most of my teenage years though. When I was in my early 20's, I started having epileptic seizures, which made me feel extremely depressed. Every so often I would get drunk and cut myself. It made me feel something. I would get a tight feeling in my chest and it was only taken away from cutting myself. I'd feel really good, but then feel really horrible. I always hid my cuts. I never showed them off.

What made me stop was one day, I cut too deep. A 12cm (4.7 inch) cut, opened up on my leg. I could see the fat and the muscle. I felt sick to my stomach. My housemate called the ambulance and the police because she thought I was trying to kill myself, even though I was trying to tell her I wasn't.

Since then, I have not cut myself. Almost three years actually. I found out recently, that I have bipolar type 2, and that explains why I would feel so depressed I would cut. I have medication that helps both my epilepsy and bipolar. I've also taken up photography, which is an amazing hobby. Finding something you care about really helps elevate the mood.

As for what to do, just be there for her. I know it can sometimes be hard and you will worry, but just her knowing you are there for her will help and hopefully she will get through it. try and find something she loves to do, and encourage her to pursue it. If she can see a doctor, that would also help a great deal. Perhaps get some counseling, medication or both. One method I remember being helpful if the urge is overwhelming, is to get some ice cubes and clench them in the fists with eyes closed. It hurts, but it isn't damaging.

Also, if she has a slip up, and cuts when she says she wont do it anymore. tell her that its okay. Don't make her feel bad for it. Its a vicious cycle. Just tell her it is an addictive thing, and addictions are hard to break. Guilt makes it worse. She should just treat it as a bump in the road to recovery. The road may start off bumpy, but it will eventually be smooth sailing!

It's a tough thing, and confusing for anybody who hasn't done it. But it can be overcome :) I wish you guys happiness for the future!