Hello,

I'm very sorry to hear about the situation with your son. Cutting is a very dangerous behavior, and if you haven't already done so, please visit his pediatrician, your family doctor, and/or a child psychologist as soon as possible to help your son.

If you and/or your son want to talk with a crisis counselor right away, please call Boys Town National Hotline: 1-800-448-3000. They were able to provide very helpful support for another mother who asked a similar question as yours (http://www.education.com/question/13-year-daughter-cutting/ ), and are available to provide support to your family too.

Below are some additional informational resources that you may also find helpful. However, these are not a substitute for taking your son to see a doctor for this serious health concern.

Thank you for reaching out and asking your question here in JustAsk. I wish your family strength and success in overcoming this challenge.

I'm so sorry to hear that your son is cutting. I remember how confusing life seemed and how I felt my parents didn't care. It might be that your son is trying to reach out to you. Try talking to him about what he is going through and ask him about what you can do to be there and help him through this difficult time. Let him know that you love him and that you never ceased caring for him and his well being.

I hope this helps.

Get a counselor now.  Your school counselor is a good first stop.  Self mutilation is a serious cry for help.  You need to put your son first for a short while to help him to figure out what the issues are, to let him know you will be there to support him, and to ensure that he receives the tools he will need to help himself for now and later.  Please do not let this one slide.  It is a stepping stone to more serious problems later.