Parents or friends of a self-injurer can discourage cutting. The ways to do this include asking about the behavior, encouraging self-injurers to get help and letting them know they are not alone. It is very important when approaching the self-injurer to suspend judgment and negative responses. Some tips include:

• Talking. Encouraging open discussion helps identify the problem and remove the secrecy that surrounds cutting. It also increases the opportunity for the self-injurer to engage in close personal relationships with others.
  
  
• Offer support. Directly asking how to help will identify exactly what is needed by the self-injurer. It is important for those attempting to help to recognize their personal limits, whether regarding time available or ability to openly discuss cutting with the self-injurer. Many people have difficulty dealing with this subject since it involves willful self-mutilation. Sometimes it is most helpful to refer the self-injurer to resources available in the community.
  
  
• Be available. Self-injurers usually only engage in cutting when they are alone. By offering to be physically in their presence, those periods of isolation where cutting may occur are reduced.
  
  
• Withhold judgment and demands. Learn to listen without judging. Because those who self-injure may have difficulty expressing their emotions, or fear or embarrassment about others’ reactions, it is important to encourage them to do so without judgment or negative responses.