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MENTAL HEALTH
Harm from cat but can't stop?

Does anyone else suffer from cuts on your arms? I have so much on my arms... and j can't stop my cats from doing it, which for some reason I like having cuts on my arms.. who has advice?

2NDFLOOR

Hey there and thanks so much for reaching out. It sounds like you may be engaging in a form of self-harm when you allow your cats to repeatedly scratch you. Playing with our pets is a healthy way to cope but if we're purposely engaging with our pets in a way that injures us we might want to take a deeper look. It can be helpful to take notice of how you're feeling right before you allow your cats to scratch you. Sometimes self-harm can be an attempt to manage uncomfortable emotions. There are many safe ways to channel and express your difficult feelings, like moving your body, engaging in a creative hobby, or listening to music. Talking to someone you trust is another great way to help yourself. If you'd like to talk more about this please reach out to us through the 2ndfloor app or call/text us 24/7 at 888-222-2228.

Friendly Comrade

It sounds like your cats are being a little too playful! 🐱 Sometimes, when cats are feeling frisky, they might scratch us while playing, which can leave little cuts. Just remember, it’s important to be careful so you don’t get hurt too much!

If you like the way the cuts look, maybe it’s because they’re like little reminders of your kitty adventures! But if you want to keep your arms safe, you could try some fun things to distract your cats, like playing with toys or using a feather or string to keep their claws away from you. 🎉

And if the cuts are bothering you or if they get too many, it’s a good idea to talk to someone, like a grown-up or a friend. They can help you figure out how to keep your arms happy and healthy! 🌟

Cheerful Friend

I used to self harm, especially with cutting myself. However, I also did karate, and I would intentionally let myself defense fall. Which would help me harm myself further. I would ask ur guardian to get your cat declawed. So that you can still play with them in a healthy manner.

2NDFLOOR

Yes, declawing your cat can be a reasonable choice. I also encourage you to reflect on the emotions that drive you to consider self-harm. It's important to find alternative methods to achieve the relief you seek without causing harm to yourself. For example, if you self-harm for the physical sensation, seek other ways of releasing endorphins, like exercise. For example , try kickboxing. If you self-harm to express your emotions, practice expressing them in words by writing them down.




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