Trauma in Burn Victims

A severe burn injury is one of the most traumatic experiences an individual can go through. There are nearly 1 million burn victims who find it challenging just to survive their injuries, and also experience psychological distress that can be devastating for the individual’s ability to cope. Several studies have indicated that trauma related to a burn injury may cause several psychological problems. Literature on burn victims has pointed out Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as a relatively common element after a burn injury. Other symptoms of anxiety and of depression are also common. Acute stress disorder (ASD), has also been found to be quite common psychological problem in the burn literature. The diagnosis of ASD requires that the individual has experienced a traumatic event and developed symptoms of dissociation, avoidance, anxiety, re -experiencing the traumatic event, and increased vigilance in response to the trauma. (Difede, J., et, al. 2002). Furthermore, research on burn injuries has indicated that up to 50% of burn victims will be diagnosed with depression, and over 30% of burn victims will have developed symptoms of anxiety one year after the injury.   Between 20% and 45% of burn victims have developed PTSD approximately one year after the incident (Sveen, J. 2011).

                                                                                                                                                                                 

Burn injury has acquired a distinctive position in the trauma literature, because burn victims are normally confronted with a multifaceted trauma complex, because of the many psychological and social aspects associated with burn injury. In a qualitative study undertaken with burn survivors in Sweden, interviews were conducted with the victims in order to gain an understanding of their trauma. The victims described feelings of dissociation, re-experiencing, avoidance, and intense grief (Millstone, S. 2008). In the case of severe burn injuries, for example third and fourth degree burns that destroy hair, nerves, glands, vessels, and burning all layers of the skin tissue, the survivors were left severely traumatized. Those that experienced facial burns were particularly affected. Many reported having avoided their mirror image, and a few expressed how months later they were still in denial when they saw their own reflection.  Unlike many burn victims, those with facial burn injuries wear the scars of their trauma for the world to see (Freund & Marvin 1990). In today’s society where image has become very important, it is very difficult for the individual to live with a face or body that is different (Millstone, S. 2008). The assumption often conveyed by the media is that having an altered appearance also means having a damaged personality or lack of intelligence. It is quite common for burn victims to receive curious stares, impulsive questions and hurtful remarks on a daily basis, which can result to increased self-consciousness. In response a burn victim will tend to become isolated and, or believe they cannot have intimate relationships (Freund & Marvin 1990).

However, the reality is that given the proper treatment, therapy, support and information to cope with the emotional, mental, and social issues, it is possible for burn victims to live normal, successful lives and enjoy fulfilling relationships and achievements, regardless of how extensive their injury may be.

Difede, J., et, al. (2002). Acute Stress Disorder After Burn Injury: A Predictor of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. Psychosomatic Medicine. 64:826–834.

Freund P.R. & Marvin J.A. (1990). Post burn pain. In Bonica J.J. (eds) The management of

Pain,  2 end edn. Philadelphia: Lea and Febiger. pp. 481-489.

Millstone, S. (2008). Coping with disfigurement 1: causes and effects. Nursing Times; 104: 12, 24–25.

Sveen, J. (2011). Posttraumatic Stress and Cognitive Process in Patients with Burns. Acta Universitatis Upsaliensis. Digital Comprehensive Summaries of Uppsala Dissertations from the Faculty of Medicine 639. 58pp. Uppsala.