The hidden scars: Impacts of self-harm scars on psychosocial functioning, quality of life, and recovery.

*I understand this may be a sensitive topic for some and remind you to tend to your self-care and to reach out for support if needed.

Self-harm is a deeply complex and often misunderstood behaviour, but its impacts extend beyond the act itself. One of the lingering impacts of self-harm is the scars it leaves behind, which can affect an individual's psychosocial functioning, quality of life, and recovery. In a 2024 scoping review titled "Impacts of self-harm scars on psychosocial functioning, quality of life, and recovery in people with histories of self-harm" published in the Psychotherapy and Counselling Journal of Australia, I explored the literature examining these impacts.

Understanding the Scope

The review aimed to explore the extent of the existing empirical evidence on how self-harm scars influence various aspects of a person's life. From social interactions and self-perception to mental health and the broader recovery process, the scars of self-harm carry a weight that is often overlooked. The following paragraphs outline what evidence from the review revealed.

Psychosocial Functioning

Scars from self-harm can affect how individuals interact with others. The visibility of these scars may lead to stigma, discrimination, and social isolation. Many individuals report feelings of shame, embarrassment, and a constant fear of being judged. These social challenges can create barriers to forming and maintaining healthy relationships, further exacerbating feelings of loneliness and distress. Important to note, however, is that the impacts of self-harm scars on psychosocial functioning are uniquely experienced and not all people with self-harm scars experience such distress. Rather, there may be some ambivalence experienced depending on different contexts and circumstances involved, and some people may be more resilient to stigma and shame.

Quality of Life

The presence of self-harm scars can impact various dimensions of life. Individuals may struggle with body image issues and lowered self-esteem, which can permeate into all areas of life, including professional and personal spheres. The emotional toll of managing visible scars can also contribute to ongoing mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression. Not all people with self-harm scars experience these impacts, however, some having accepted their scarring more than others.

Recovery and Healing

Self-harm scars can be a physical reminder of past trauma and pain, making the recovery process more challenging. The journey to recovery is not only about addressing the underlying issues that led to self-harm but also about finding ways to cope with the visible marks left behind and coming to greater acceptance. As the review highlighted this can involve a variety of therapeutic approaches, including acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and support groups.

Moving Forward

Raising awareness about the impacts of self-harm scars is crucial in creating a more supportive and understanding environment for those affected. By recognising the psychosocial challenges and working towards reducing stigma, we can help individuals navigate their recovery journey with greater compassion and support.

At Centred Wellness I can compassionately and respectfully support you in navigating the unique psychosocial, quality of life, and recovery impacts associated with your self-harm scars, so that you might discover greater acceptance, connection to self and enhanced wellbeing that is personally meaningful to you.

Read the Full Review

For a comprehensive understanding of the impacts of self-harm scars on psychosocial functioning, quality of life, and recovery, you can access and read the full scoping review here:

Linington, C. (2024). Impacts of self-harm scars on psychosocial functioning, quality of life, and recovery in people with histories of self-harm: A scoping review. Psychotherapy and Counselling Journal of Australia, 12(2). https:/​/​doi.org/​10.59158/​001c.125796