IDK if Ishould hide or let them show?

[volleyballchick751]

So school is starting next week, and I don't know if I should cover all my scars(which means another year of long sleeves) or not care and hope people don't ask about them? My fam knows so its not like I have to hide them like before. But I don't know, If I always wear long sleeves then 1 day dont I feel super self conscious, but if I wear short sleeves, I forget until someone brings it up. Im tired of hiding but, also scared of judgmental people. ARGHH Idk what should I do???

[Katie Lydia]

I show them and my left arm has been cut up more than a Christmas ham. I don't get offended when people ask, they're just curious and i'd rather tell them my story so they don't jump to their own conclusions. I personally think the more people know about self harm the more they understand it.

If your truely not ready then don't show them because sooner or later someone will ask. If you are you'll find it gets easier.

Hope i helped xxx

[Pandamonium]

You have to decide which you're more ready to deal with at this point. If showing them and dealing with people's reactions may really upset you, that may not be the choice. But if you think you can handle whatever they have to say and don't care what they think, then you may be ready to go ahead and show them.

They will ask and say things you may not appreciate, so just be prepared. Many people don't understand the idea of self harm and have misconceived notions about it, which leads them to making rude or inaccurate assumptions and comments. If people do ask and they are genuinely curious, see it as an opportunity to spread understanding.

[jaii]

it depends what you are willing to have everybody know, if you do not mine them knowing then go for it, short sleeves, but if you do not want them to see then, do what you feel comfortable doing!!!!

[TheBabyEater]

I don't bother hiding it anymore. It is my past, and it is a part of me. I'm ready to show everyone what that really means. Granted, sometimes it gets annoying. People ask questions, sometimes they stare, and not always is it someone you really want to spill your life story to. For me, it's oddly easier to tell someone closer to my age about what happened than it is to tell someone that is older. Not sure why, maybe I think a younger generation has been around SH more than the older ones. But either way, I grew tired of hiding it. Especially in this 100 degree heat!!

[TheCrowing]

You could always meet in the middle and go for 3/4 sleeves. =P

I wear short sleeves all the time. I don't like the term showing them, because then it makes me feel like I'm on display, but I have no problem with not covering them. It gets too hot, and sometimes long sleeves are just so uncomfortable. Or if I'm feeling a bit vulnerable that day, I'll wear long sleeves or a hoodie, and if it gets too annoying, roll the sleeves up a little bit.

[Thirteen]

I'd honestly say don't hide it, but don't make it extremely obvious either. What I mean is, maybe some bracelets will distract from it.

Let's put it this way... My biggest concern for you right now is not only a select few classmates (teenagers can be cruel, let's face it), but also if a teacher happens to see and overreacts. But, you don't need to completely hide them, since they're not fresh marks, right?

Honestly, instead of covering them, just don't make them the main focus, you know?

[volleyballchick751]

I think that I'm not going to hide them, I have to stop hiding at some point so why not now? This actually makes me excited just cuz I can wear different clothes!!! Thanks for all your opinions!!!!