Kansas City Townsend Law Firm

Scarring and disfigurement can lead to emotional trauma

On Behalf of | Dec 19, 2018 | Car Accident

Suffering serious injuries in a car wreck or other accident can sometimes lead to scarring and disfigurement. This isn’t always something that can be hidden. When the problem is on your face or hands, you can’t conceal the marks easily or completely. In this case, you have to learn how to live with the scars.

Becoming comfortable in your own skin after you suffer from disfigurements can be an uphill climb. Many people don’t realize how these marks can impact a victim’s self-esteem and mental state. Most will need to get help for the physical aspects as well as the emotional issues.

Finding your confidence

You must remember that your scars don’t define you. They are a reminder of what happened, but they don’t say anything about your character or your abilities. Positive body language can go a long way when you have contact with people. You can do this by maintaining eye contact and standing tall.

Try to remain positive

Using positive communications can reduce the tension that might be present in interpersonal situations. Saying hello to a person you notice staring at your scars can be beneficial. This lets the person know that you noticed them and opens up the possibility of them asking you what happened to lead up to the scarring.

Let people know if you are uncomfortable

You have the option of asking people not to stare at you. This should be done respectfully and firmly. You should prepare yourself for the possibility that the person isn’t going to stop looking at you. If this happens, you might choose to move out of the situation so that you won’t be forced to endure the constant staring.

Use humor to boost your mood

You might even decide to use humor to lighten up the situation. Clever replies, such as “I’m embarrassed by your admiring looks” can cause people to chuckle. This may be enough to stop further staring.

Finding professional help

Sometimes, even the best attitude won’t help you to move past emotional effects of the scarring. Professional mental health help may be in order. This can be costly, so include these expenses in your claim for compensation after the car crash.