What is a common psychological effect experienced by burn survivors?

Burn survivors often experience a range of psychological effects following their injuries, with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) being particularly prevalent. The trauma associated with severe burns can lead to significant distress, anxiety, and flashbacks that are characteristic of PTSD. Survivors may relive the event of the burn, have heightened feelings of fear or helplessness, and experience difficulties in coping with the changes in their body image and lifestyle that burns often bring.

While physical aspects such as chronic headaches may occur due to the trauma or treatment of burns, they are not primarily psychological effects. Similarly, increased social confidence and enhanced creativity are not commonly associated with the psychological aftermath of burn injuries. Often, survivors face challenges such as social anxiety and isolation rather than increased confidence. Thus, PTSD stands out as a critical psychological effect that healthcare providers must be aware of when treating burn survivors, underscoring the importance of mental health support as part of burn recovery.