How can I stop cutting from the pain?

Cutting, as you know, is quite a serious problem that more commonly affects girls/women than males. Although cutting can be viewed as a coping mechanism (albeit negative) studies have shown that the brain releases endorphins during self-harm which in return brings “relief”. You mention a number of other issues that you’re trying to deal with and I do think they need attention–beyond what you alone can overcome. One of the best treatments for cutting is psychotherapy in which you’ll be able to reveal the etiology behind the cutting while in the same time learning new, and more positive/effective coping skills. So–to deal with the issues of no one taking the situation as serious, be relentless in asking for professional help. Educators and parents are sometimes not wary enough of mental health issues in teenagers but rather consider it “teenage angst” when in reality their child/student is actually suffering a great deal inside. More importantly, aside from individual psychotherapy for yourself, your family probably would benefit from family therapy in which you all can come together and deal with issues instead of hiding behind them. If you’re blacking out and then later waking up cut, this could potentially be a very serious problem that needs to be addressed asap. Go to your school psychologist/guidance counselor/social worker and tell them everything that’s going on. If you’re close to a teacher have him/her go along with you to the counselor to let them know you’re serious about getting help. Be sure to tell him/her everything and assume they have no idea of what is going on in your life so they can get a better understanding of the situation. I really hope that things will work out for you–hang in there and you can message me if there’s anything else I can do. Take care. :) -S