title: Cutting: unraveling the mystery behind the marks.
abstract: Self-mutilation or cutting is not uncommon and may be detected in the workplace. It stems from an underlying psychological illness, specifically borderline personality disorder (BPD). Individuals diagnosed with BPD are usually attempting to handle negative childhood experiences and feelings of abandonment. They often overreact to social stress and engage in cutting to alleviate uncomfortable feelings. A small percentage go on to attempt suicide. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is the preferred treatment modality for individuals with BPD. Occupational health nurses are in a pivotal position to identify workers who cut and to refer them to appropriate treatment options. In addition, occupational health nurses can learn to reinforce the social skills learned in DBT.
authors.affiliation: Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond, KY, USA.
authors.forename: Beverly G
authors.initials: BG
authors.lastname: Hart
mesh_terms: D001883:Borderline Personality Disorder / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy*; D019090:Case Management; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D008960:Models, Psychological; D024802:Nurse's Role; D009785:Occupational Health Nursing / Q000458:organization & administration*; D011613:Psychotherapy; D012307:Risk Factors; D016728:Self-Injurious Behavior / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy*; D016896:Treatment Outcome