Daughter is cutting

I am glad that you were made aware of your daughter's struggle. It is unfortunate, but not uncommon, for some kids to cut. This happens frequently in middle school as a result of having known or heard of someone else's cutting behavior. This self harming is usually indicative of someone in pain. The act of cutting is usually a way of numbing the internal pain by feeling external pain. People self harm in many other ways not just by cutting. Some burn, and hit themselves, and it is even thought that sometimes excessive tattooing and piercing can be another way of self abuse. Various parts of the body can be involved, with places on the body that are usually hidden by clothes or even places like between the toes, or creases of the body. Although cutting is usually not an attempt at suicide, accidents can happen and this behavior cannot go unaddressed. Your daughter needs to be seen by a therapist as soon as possible and most have experience with "cutters" and self mutilators. Check any licensed professional such as a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker of a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. Double check that they experience in this area. You may also read about cutting on the internet and there are also books available for additional help. Good luck to you and your daughter. There is help.