It’s fascinating how a single moment can change everything. I’ve been reflecting a lot on how trauma can linger in unexpected ways. A while back, I went through something that shook me to my core. At first, I thought I could just push through it—after all, isn’t that what we’re often told? Just keep moving forward, and eventually, it won’t hurt as much.
But then, I started noticing these little shifts within myself. I became hyper-aware of my surroundings, jumping at the slightest sound, like a car backfiring or a sudden shout. There were days when I felt like I was on high alert, my mind racing with thoughts that wouldn’t settle down. It wasn’t just anxiety; it was like I was wrestling with this invisible shadow that followed me around, reminding me of what had happened.
I remember a friend saying, “Your mind is trying to keep you safe.” That struck a chord with me. It’s as if my brain was waving a red flag, trying to protect me from feeling vulnerable again. It’s a strange dichotomy, really. On one hand, I wanted to feel normal again, to enjoy life without this constant cloud hanging over me. On the other, I realized that grappling with those emotions was part of the healing process.
I found solace in talking about it, sharing my experiences with close friends who also had faced their own battles after trauma. It was comforting to know I wasn’t alone, that others understood that internal struggle. We formed this little support system where we could express our fears without judgment—sometimes just venting or laughing about the weird ways we cope.
I’ve started to see therapy as a safe space to unpack all of this. It’s not always easy, and there are sessions that feel heavy, but it’s also where I’ve learned to give myself grace. It’s okay to not have everything figured out, to have days where I’m just not feeling it.
I guess what I’m getting at is that healing isn’t linear; it ebbs and flows like the tide. Some days, I feel empowered, ready to take on the world. Other days, it’s a struggle to get out of bed. But I’m learning to embrace both sides of that journey. It’s about acknowledging my feelings, allowing myself to be human, and reaching out when I need support.
What about you all? How have you navigated your own experiences after a traumatic event? What strategies or insights have helped you along the way? I’d love to hear your thoughts.