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Why might people with severe burn injuries need counseling during rehabilitation?

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Cross-section diagram of human skin showing burn depth by degree, with arrows indicating that first-degree burns affect only the epidermis, second-degree burns reach the dermis, third-degree burns extend into subcutaneous tissue, and fourth-degree burns penetrate to muscle. — burn This diagram shows how burn injuries are classified by severity. First-degree burns damage the outer skin, known as the epidermis. First-degree burns are the least severe form of burn injury. Second-degree burns damage the outer skin and some of the underlying skin, known as the dermis, which also includes some connective tissue. Third-degree burns damage all the layers of skin, including subcutaneous tissue. Fourth-degree burns, which are the most severe, destroy every layer of skin and also damage muscle, tendons, and bones.

People with severe burn injuries often require extended counseling during rehabilitation to help them process the psychological trauma associated with their altered appearance and physical disabilities.1

Because extensive burns frequently result in physically and cosmetically debilitating scars, patients may struggle to come to terms with disfigurement and the reality that complete restoration to their pre-injury condition is usually not possible. Furthermore, the rehabilitation process often involves long-term, painful physical therapy to maintain or regain mobility in damaged joints.1

While these challenges are significant, the support of family, friends, and professionals is essential in helping burn survivors make successful adjustments and lead productive lives.1