Teens cut themselves primarily as a way to cope with intense emotional pain, overwhelming feelings, or psychological distress. The reasons include expressing or interrupting emotions they find too difficult to manage, seeking relief from deep psychological pain, and regaining a sense of control. For some teens, physical pain feels easier to handle than emotional pain, and cutting can provide a temporary distraction or emotional release. It can also be addictive, reinforcing the behavior as teens seek relief again and again. Sometimes, self-harm serves as a form of communication when teens feel their emotions are ignored. Other contributing factors include depression, anxiety, trauma, peer pressure, family problems, and mental health issues. Most teens do not self-harm as a suicide attempt but as a way to deal with unbearable emotions or numbness.