People who cut are often ashamed of their behavior, but feel unable to stop. They may seek help only after their secret behavior is exposed to others.

Those who believe someone they know may be cutting can look for several signs. The wounds themselves are likely to be small, straight cuts – cuts that appear more deliberate and precise than a cat scratch or accidental scrape. Besides the discovery of physical evidence or discussion of the problem, the following are some additional signs of cutting:

• Frequent injuries with suspicious excuses
• Inappropriate clothing worn to conceal the skin (e.g., long sleeves in warm weather)
• Blood stains on clothing
• Long periods of isolation, after which new injuries appear
• Knife or razor in purse or book bag
• Difficulty talking about feelings
• Relationship problems
• Poor functioning at home, work or school
• Low self-esteem, extreme self-criticism