A Bright Red Scream: Self-Mutilation and the Language of Pain

Written by journalist Marilee Strong, A Bright Red Scream: Self-Mutilation and the Language of Pain is a detailed look into self-injury. The book is described as a "must read" for therapists, self-injurers, and those who care about them.

It is important to note that readers must be aware of potential triggers and be sure to ensure their own safety.

This is a valuable resource for anyone who self-injures or wants to learn more about the subject. Style wise, it is an easy read, though the subject matter makes reading it anything but easy.

Strong first wrote about self-injury, referred to as cutting, in 1993. For many, her writing is a first glimpse into cutting; for others, it is the first realization that they are not alone in their behaviors.

Looking at the subject holistically, Strong starts the book with several vignettes describing different people who cut. The author then begins to look at self-injury from different perspectives: psychology, childhood sexual abuse, psychobiology of trauma, eating disorders/body alienation/self-mutilation, socio-cultural aspects, and treatment/healing.

For those wanting to gain a better understanding of self-injury, this book is the place to start. Well-researched and comprehensive, A Bright Red Scream does not read like an academic book. It instead takes the reader into the world of self-injury, shedding light on an all too common painful and isolating practice.

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