I would be someone that would ask because self harm wouldn't occur to me as an answer. I would think it was some kind of accident. Actually now that I've read this I will be more sensitive and I wouldn't ask. Anyway, handle it like any other rude question, just give "the look", ignore the question and change the subject.

have you ever read some of the sarcastic quotes in reply to those who r rude. i work as a mental health nurse and have scars of my own. initially i was ashamed about them but i got to the point poeple asked were interested and i i was unwell. others u can tell are been sarcy so i give scarcy responses back like
it sucks having a husband whos a sadist
there not cuts there hives, im allergic to idiots.
look at your scars and frown; you dont have any?
OmG wTF where did they come from then smile or scream.
people are ignorant and dont really understand self harm so let them talk. at least your important enough in there sad little life to be spoke about!

@A MyDepressionTeam Member thanks :). and i guess some selfharm scars can look more deliberate than others if that makes sense ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

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A MyDepre...

I had a few on my arm that I covered with a tattoo but the ones on my thighs are initials that I put there. Most people don't say anything because they are obvious self inflicted, but if they do, my response depends on who and how they ask.

people don't know that's why they ask. If I saw a scar on the wrist I may assume it was self harm, (stupid) but if I saw other scars on a person I would think they had an accident or injury at some point so I wouldn't get upset with someone asking.