Dealing with Scars and Self-Harm: Understanding Mental and Physical Healing

I am a 14-year-old turning 15 by the end of the year. I started self-harming when I was 12. The scars have remained and are still quite dark. What do I do?

Dealing with the aftermath of self-harm is a complex and challenging process that involves both physical and mental healing. It's important to understand that your scars will take time to fade and that patience is key. Your body naturally sheds skin gradually, and scar healing can be a long process. For instance, I had a scar on my arm from when I was around 10—I am now 34, and it has since faded away. However, some scars do not fade with time, especially if they are deep or large.

To aid in the fading of dark scars, moisturizing is crucial. I personally use Palmers Cocoa Butter, which is known to be particularly effective for stretch marks and other dark marks. There are other moisturizers available, so it's worth doing some research to find the one that works best for you. In addition to using moisturizers, it's also important to focus on internal healing. Mental scars are just as important as physical ones and require dedicated attention.

Understanding the Root Causes

Knowing why you turned to self-harm is a crucial step in the healing process. While it's none of my business, finding a therapist you can trust can provide a safe space to explore these reasons. In my experience, sometimes underlying physical conditions can contribute to emotional distress. For example, I had an undiagnosed and poorly functioning thyroid that eventually turned cancerous. The thyroid gland, which controls our hormones, can significantly impact mental well-being and depressive symptoms. It's essential to address any such conditions with a healthcare professional to better understand and manage your emotional state.

Support and Treatment

It's important to reach out for help. If you're not comfortable speaking to a therapist, consider talking to your school counselor or psychologist. They may be able to connect you with the right professionals and offer support during the day to monitor any stressors you might face. They can also provide guidance on how to handle situations where a friend is self-harming.

Multifaceted Approaches to Healing

In addition to seeking professional help, there are steps you can take to promote both physical and mental healing:

Therapeutic Moisturizers: Apply vitamin E oil directly to the scars and use products like gel tabs. Apply these daily to help with fading. Nutritional Support: Take a good multivitamin and drink bone broth to support your overall health. These can provide essential nutrients that aid in skin healing. Lotion with Collagen: Use a lotion that contains collagen to further support skin health.

While physical scars may take a year or two to fade, the mental scars are a different matter. Some individuals may slip deeper into self-harm, while others may emerge stronger. It's important to view your scars as a testament to your resilience through a challenging time in your life.

Conclusion

Dealing with self-harm and the resulting scars is a complex journey. It requires patience, support from loved ones, and possibly professional help. Remember that you are not alone, and there are resources and people who care about your well-being. Take the first step today by reaching out for help. Many hugs to you, and I wish you the best on this journey.