A recent study conducted in Uttar Pradesh has revealed that burn survivors often face severe stigma, emotional distress, and neglect within healthcare facilities. The research, based on interviews with patients, doctors, and legal professionals, highlights how survivors - especially those with visible disfigurements - are frequently subjected to discrimination, isolation, and inadequate mental health support.

According to the findings, overburdened hospital staff, lack of psychosocial training, and absence of structured support systems lead to a situation where burn survivors are left to battle anxiety, depression, and social rejection - often alone. The issue is even more acute among patients from underprivileged or marginalised backgrounds.

Researchers recommend integrating mental health services directly into burn care, including counselling, peer support, and staff sensitisation programs. They also call for policy reforms and updates to medical training that incorporate the emotional and psychological dimensions of burn recovery.

With India reporting over 2 million burn injuries annually, the study stresses that healing must go beyond skin-deep - addressing both the physical and invisible wounds that survivors carry.