Bodily Harm: The Breakthrough Healing Program for Self-Injurers

Self-injury is one of the fastest-growing and most disturbing epidemics plaguing our society today. This insidious syndrome -- which compels people to cut, burn, and scratch their skin, or break their own bones -- is rapidly usurping anorexia and bulimia as the most serious problem among women and teenagers. Currently this problem -- and our authors -- are getting extensive coverage in the media -- including features on Oprah, Larry King Live, 20/20, and articles in The New York Times, Chicago Tribune, and Vogue. But ironically, there is little information available on the subject, and as a result cutting is widely misunderstood and mistreated by the psychiatric community.

Written by the directors of S.A.F.E. Alternatives, the only self-injury treatment program in the country, Bodily Harm is the most authoritative examination yet of this alarming syndrome, and the first to offer a comprehensive treatment regimen. It clearly defines what cutting is, explains the kinds of emotional trauma that prompts people to injure themselves, and shows how the current lack of understanding of the syndrome can prove harmful to sufferers. It also includes case studies, diaries, and success stories from a diverse group of patients. Most importantly, Bodily Harm offers a course of treatment based on years of experience and extensive clinical research -- as well as compassion, advice, and hope for the afflicted and their friends and families.