What to say if someone asks about your scars?

Give a brief, honest answer. Honesty is often the best policy when it comes to explaining self-harm scars, but you don’t have to go into detail. Acknowledge the scars and mention that they were from a tough time in your past, then let the subject go. The person you’re talking to may drop the subject as well.

Should you ask someone about their scars?

If their scars are visible, there is a chance that they overcame the enormous urge to cover them up. Whatever the reason, their scars are not an invitation to ask what happened. It’s kind of rude. Especially in the case of someone you don’t particularly know, it’s incredibly invasive to ask about self-harm scars.

Do scars get smaller as you grow?

In time, some collagen breaks down at the site of the wound and the blood supply reduces. The scar gradually becomes smoother and softer. Although scars are permanent, they can fade over a period of up to 2 years. It’s unlikely they’ll fade any more after this time.

Will my child’s cut scar?

All cuts heal with a scar. If good care is given to a scar early while it is healing, the result will be a less notable scar. Scars continue to mature and change for up to 12-18 months.

What should I do if my child is cutting themselves?

Don’t freak out. Cutting is associated with shame and judgment. Although becoming undone when you see that your child has cut him or herself makes perfect sense, do your best to stay calm. Your child needs help, and the first line of defense is your pediatrician.

What does it mean when a child cuts themselves in front?

If your child cuts in places that you can see and does not try to hide their wounds, then it is likely that, consciously or subconsciously, they are trying to let you know they are in pain. If they cut, or threaten to cut, in front of you, then they are likely crying for help.

What does it mean when a person cuts themselves?

It can also be a sign of mental health problems that cause people to have trouble controlling their impulses or to take unnecessary risks. Some people who cut themselves have problems with drug or alcohol abuse. Some people who cut have had a traumatic experience, such as living through abuse, violence, or a disaster.

Is it possible for a cut to become infected?

But both can happen. It’s possible to misjudge the depth of a cut, making it so deep that it requires stitches (or, in extreme cases, hospitalization). Cuts can become infected if a person uses nonsterile or dirty cutting instruments — razors, scissors, pins, or even the sharp edge of the tab on a can of soda.