With no one to talk to, teenaged girls are using penknives and other sharp objects to cut themselves as an escape from school, family and relationship problems.

"By concentrating on the pain in my arm, I forget about my emotional pain," one 15-year-old told the New Paper.

Incidents of self-mutilation had been detected at five girls schools, the newspaper reported September 30.

Child psychiatrist Brian Yeo said many cases went undetected because the girls did not seek treatment and the scars were not obvious.

"Some also wear thick watches or friendship bands to hide their scars," he said.

Doctor Linda Semlitz of the Adam road Hospital said girls suffering from personality disorders cut themselves to seek attention.

"They're overwhelmed so they hurt themselves to get help," she said.

"Many of them report substantial relief after cutting themselves."

One 15-year-old, identified only as Mary, said she had repeatedly cut herself over the past two years after failed relationships with other girls and because she could not cope with exam stress.

"I can't control my feelings. Sometimes, I regret it and tell myself not to do it again. But cutting my hand is the fastest way to relieve pain," she said.

Another girl said she started cutting herself because her parents gave all their attention to her younger sister.

"It was painful, but it was nothing compared to the pain in my heart," she said.

Last week after a quarrel with her boyfriend she carved his initials on her left hand with a knife.

Pyschiatrist Yeo said self-mutilation was mainly a refuge for girls. Boys with emotional problems tended to turn to alcohol, drugs and fighting, he said.

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