Dealing with scars
Some people self harm where scars are normally covered by clothing. However, some people’s scars are more likely to be seen. For some people, this is ok; they remind them of the pain they have been through. For others they may want to find ways of getting rid of them. It all depends on the person and each person’s feelings are equally valid.
Dealing with unpleasant questions
If your scars are uncovered it is highly likely that at some time someone will ask you what happened to you.
People on the whole do not want to make you uncomfortable. Quite often the easiest solution is to laugh and say "it's a long story". Other approaches include:
“I had a fight with the cat” “I got run over by a lawn mower” “I wrestle tigers” “I got caught on barbed wire”
In the end you have to choose what you feel most comfortable with for an individual situation. Sometimes saying something funny is a polite way of saying "none of your business" but other times you may want to tell them that you did it.
People on the whole do not want to make you uncomfortable. Quite often the easiest solution is to laugh and say "it's a long story". Other approaches include:
“I had a fight with the cat” “I got run over by a lawn mower” “I wrestle tigers” “I got caught on barbed wire”
In the end you have to choose what you feel most comfortable with for an individual situation. Sometimes saying something funny is a polite way of saying "none of your business" but other times you may want to tell them that you did it.
Dealing with the scars themselves
Many people, especially when they are with people who do not know about their self harm hide or minimise their scars.
Scars can be easily hidden with long sleeved tops and trousers. You can always say you are sensitive to the sun. Some people find concealer works for smaller scars. There are a number of products for minimising scars.
Initially, good wound care can reduce scarring. Following that your pharmacist may be able to recommend products that may help.
If you wish to remove your scars completely, plastic surgery can in some circumstances be obtained on the NHS. You will however, have to convince your surgeon that you are through with self harming.
Scars can be easily hidden with long sleeved tops and trousers. You can always say you are sensitive to the sun. Some people find concealer works for smaller scars. There are a number of products for minimising scars.
Initially, good wound care can reduce scarring. Following that your pharmacist may be able to recommend products that may help.
If you wish to remove your scars completely, plastic surgery can in some circumstances be obtained on the NHS. You will however, have to convince your surgeon that you are through with self harming.
