As I get older, I lose more restraint, and I'm going to discuss freely somethings that happened in my past.

Suicidal tendencies exist among teens -- it is a high killer among the adolescent, but I often wonder if it isn't a greater threat to kids in these wacky Apostolic churches, or the new "extreme" teen societies of Charismania.

A few years ago, here in Houston, a member of a charismatic Baptist church -- an "on fire" member of the youth group there -- climbed up the largest building in uptown Houston, and hurled himself to the ground.

I personally struggled with such thoughts as an adolescent, and I'm thankful everyday that I made it through those tough times -- which were extraordinarily tough due to the problems solving skills of young Apostolics: "magical thinking" ("maybe if I prayed harder," "God hates me -- or he would answer my prayers")

The story you've described is an EXACT replica of a story of a young female friend of mine growing up -- the marks were explained to parents as "cat scratches." You are in a difficult place, but know this one thing -- it is not your responsibility to make professional decisions for this young woman, but it may be your legal responsibility to report this.

What to do? Call a local psychologist, or therapist -- let them know the position you're in, and how you should respond. If this girl is an imminent danger to herself -- there are things that must and should be done, and your only responsibility may be to report it to the appropriate authorities. If things worsen, and you're not sure what to do -- call the police -- they'll have the info, for sure.

Check your state and local laws online -- it may be against the law NOT to tell when a minor is endangered -- be it by their own hand or others.