There are several things self-injurers may do to help reduce the likelihood of cutting. First, it is important that self-injurers recognize cutting as a detrimental behavior that they wish to discontinue. In order to help them accomplish this, it is recommended they seek help from a mental health professional who has experience dealing with cutting.

Once cutting is identified as a problem and steps are taken to address it, there remain various issues affecting the lifestyle of the self-injurer. These are adjustments to the way self-injurers conduct themselves once in treatment for cutting. Lifestyle issues may include:

• Avoiding physical and emotional isolation
  
  
• Making time for therapy sessions
  
  
• Keeping a list of people to contact handy (for times of intense emotional distress)
  
  
• Being aware of the side-effects of certain medications that may affect mood or energy level
  
  
• Identifying how to treat or explain physical scars