I wasn't sure if I should post this under the love and romance heading or not, but I figure that it's more appropriate to put it here.
My arms and thighs are covered with self harm scars. I have to wear long-sleeves and pants everywhere.
Since I recently finished being rehabilitated for depression and anxiety related issues (I'm all better now, thankfully), I want to get out more and make more friends (I'm 19). I'm going to a university so I don't think I'll have trouble meeting people.
What I wanted to talk about is how I should approach the topic of the scarring on my arms. I think that it will keep me from ever getting intimate with someone because the moment they see them they will be horrified and scared away.
I wanted to know if any of you had some advice on how I should broach the topic with someone I am planning on getting close to (I am a guy, not sure how relevant this is), and if any of you have any similar experience that I could draw inspiration from.
Thanks
Its about how you can play it off,
obviously they arent gonna be scared of it if you joke around with it,
"I use to be a depressed Emo, and now I'm Gay(happy) [insert] - "No Homo", No surprise buttsex" (a crude example of how you can take the piss and make it light humourish
Well, this isn't something you're going to be able to hide, unfortunately for you. As soon as someone sees them they're going to know.
But, I think you're underestimating how understanding people can be. Your partner/friends might not even bring it up when you first show them your scars, and even if they do all you have to say is basically what you've said here; You were once severely depressed and anxious, but have sought treatment and are better now. Simple as that, and of course you could go into more detail if you wish.
You could also talk to a dermatologist about scar treatment, if they really bother you.
>>2
I'll have to work on that, I guess you might say that I'm not really very humorous though so that might not work. Thanks for the advice though.
>>3
It's possible that I am, as this isn't something I've ever done before, but it feels humiliating to have to admit to strangers that I have been in such a shameful state...
Also, I'm pretty sure that there is no way to make scars like mine less visible/ugly.
>>2
Personally, I would find it weird if someone I was just meeting said that to me.
I would suggest just not bringing them up at all, unless asked; if someone I was being introduced to showed me scars from anything I would be a little put off.
The average person wouldn't really make a big deal out of it, even if they did notice.