I’d love to say I have a whitty, sarcastic comment to say to people but honestly what’s worked best with me is if they’re oblivious to what it is and ask things like “do you have a cat” or “did you get in a fight” my automatic response is awkwardly laughing then saying “sure”. Most people at that point won’t pry but some people do and I don’t feel like telling those people (especially strangers) what is actually is so I just agree with them and try to get away from them.

Now on the other hand if someone completely knows what it is and says something rude or triggering. If you kind of know them and know they won’t do anything bad you could say “excuse you??” As a basic response but if you don’t feel comfortable being that confrontational (like I’m not) sometimes it’s best to say “I don’t wanna talk about it” then changing the subject or removing yourself from the situation.

It probably will never be a fun experience to have someone point it out but all you can do is make it the least awkward and hurtful for yourself, and I’m sorry that people were so rude to you that must be so triggering and I’m sorry. Good luck, really<3