There are broad estimates on the subject of self abusive behavior.
This is mainly because there are not as many reported cases as there are people who are actually harming themselves.
Statistics show those who cut themselves, but also shows teens who have other forms of self destructive behaviors, like anorexia and other eating disorders.
Still, it is estimated that one out of every 200 girls between 13 and 19 in the United States cut themselves regularly, and it is unknown how many teen boys.
Teens that suffer from depression have also been known to cut themselves and no antidepressants can prevent this.
Why do teens cut themselves? There are many different answers to that question.
Those who suffer from depression may cut themselves in order to have some kind of feeling, or because while they can not bring themselves to commit suicide, it is the closest thing without going over the edge.
For kids that have a lot of intense emotions, it can be a way to deaden those emotions, and just the opposite for those who have a sense of numbness in their lives.
It is also a sign of some serious mental and emotional issues that if not addressed can cause a more serious injury or even death.
The first thing that parents need to know is that their teen is not cutting themselves because of the parents, and it is not their fault.
The second thing is that their adolescent should not be given antidepressants to treat their symptoms, because these could cause even worse effects.
The first thing you need to do to stop your teen from cutting themselves is to find out the underlying cause.
Too many parents are quick to judge, and want to take away all the sharp objects in the house, or commit their child to some psychiatric ward.
There are many ways you can help and the first place to start, is with communication.
First of all, if you start noticing any unexplained cuts and bruises, especially if they are in places that are not normal, like upper arms and thigh area or legs, then it is time to sit down and talk.
You really need to start talking to them about why they are cutting themselves.
It could mean they are suffering from some kind of depression and it is important that you ask them how they feel.
You must let them know that you love them and care about them, without being too judgmental.
Don't just start telling them that they need to take drugs like antidepressants and mood elevators, this is not going to help them.
There is help, but you have to be patient, and give your teen all the support you can.
If your child is cutting themselves, it did not just start overnight, and in the same token, it is not going to be cured overnight.
If they are telling you why they are cutting, this is a good start.
If they say things like they feel worthless, or don't want to deal with the world around them, it could mean they have depression, anxiety, or a panic disorder.
It could also mean that they have some kind of hormonal imbalance, which often starts during teen years.
Simple tests can be performed, and you should speak to your kids about it first, rather than just forcing them to seek third party help.
This way they will feel empowered to change themselves rather than pushed.