Preparing questions in advance can help patients and their families have more meaningful discussions with their physicians regarding their conditions. Patients may wish to ask their doctor the following questions about cutting:

1. Do you have experience treating people who self-injure?
   
   
2. What type of therapy is most appropriate for me?
   
   
3. Can you recommend a mental health professional who may help me?
   
   
4. Are there other treatment methods I might benefit from?
   
   
5. How soon after beginning treatment will I see improvement in my behavior?
   
   
6. What do you think is causing my cutting?
   
   
7. Do I have an underlying disorder that is related to cutting?
   
   
8. Are any of my lifestyle habits contributing to my cutting?
   
   
9. How can I prevent a relapse?
   
   
10. I suspect a loved one may be cutting himself/herself. How should I approach him/her about getting help?
    
    
11. I recently discovered that a loved one has been cutting. Should I be concerned that she/he may attempt suicide?
    
    
12. Where can I go for additional resources on cutting?