Why I’m on This Trauma Kick Right Now
- Sep 7
- 3 min read
I am a survivor of childhood abuse and trauma. It has taken me more than 40 years to finally understand that what I once called my “issues” are not flaws in who I am. They are survival responses—patterns and behaviors that I developed in order to protect myself when I was a child.
If you’re in your 30s, 40s, or beyond, you may find yourself carrying wounds that no one else can see. The traumatic events themselves may be far behind you, but the truth is: your mind and body may still be responding as if the danger is happening right now. That is the nature of trauma. And to be clear, this post is not meant to diminish the experience or details of what you personally went though/ experienced.
This post is meant to provide a resource of support, acknowledgment, understanding and relief. It is my attempt to reach out and provide a little bit of something I wish I once had. 🫶🏼
What Is Trauma, Really?
When people hear the word trauma, they often think of the “big” events—abuse, violence, neglect, or tragic accidents. Those are very real and deeply impactful forms of trauma. But trauma can also be quieter, more subtle, and often overlooked.
It may look like having to grow up too soon.
It may sound like being responsible for adult problems when you were just a child.
It can feel like never having the space to be fully yourself, or not having your needs for safety, love, or comfort met.
It can even show up as emotional neglect from a parent who worked long hours or simply didn’t know how to show up in the ways you needed.
No matter the form, trauma is less about the event itself and more about its impact on you—how it changed you, shaped your beliefs, and taught you to survive.
How Trauma Shows Up in Daily Life
Trauma doesn’t disappear just because the event is in the past. It echoes. It can appear in small, everyday ways that don’t always seem connected at first glance:
Feeling hyper-vigilant or on edge in situations that are safe.
Struggling with trust, even in relationships where you are loved.
People-pleasing or overworking because rest feels unsafe.
Shutting down emotionally when conflict arises.
Feeling “too much” or “not enough,” no matter what you do.
Reacting strongly to criticism or rejection.
These aren’t signs of weakness. They are signs of strength. They are proof that your mind and body adapted to keep you alive when you needed it most.
Why Acknowledging Trauma Matters
Healing begins when we can finally pause and admit: yes, trauma happened to me.
It’s not about blaming. It’s about understanding. By acknowledging the truth, we create space to gently meet the parts of ourselves that have been stuck in survival mode for decades.
You are not broken. You are human. And you deserve to live free from the invisible chains of the past.
Moving Toward Healing
If you’re beginning to notice trauma patterns in your own life, know this: awareness is the first step toward freedom.
Journaling or reflecting can help you track when these responses show up.
Therapy, support groups, or spiritual practices can offer tools for healing.
Compassion—especially self-compassion—helps you shift from judgment to understanding.
It doesn’t happen overnight. But healing is possible.
A Final Reminder
You are worthy.
You are safe.
You are loved.
The younger you survived by adapting. The older you has the power to heal by listening, honoring, and meeting your true needs—maybe for the very first time.
Your Freedom From Trauma Workbook
Sometimes, noticing our patterns is easier when we write them down. To support you on this journey, I’ve created a free printable called Freedom From Trauma. It’s a gentle guide you can use each day to check in with yourself, notice how trauma responses may be showing up, and practice self-compassion.
This worksheet includes:
Simple questions to help you reflect on your feelings.
Prompts for noticing old patterns and survival responses.
Space to write kind messages to yourself and answers for these questions.
Gentle affirmations to practice for moving forward with love and care.
You can download your free copy here:
Remember: healing happens one step at a time, and every time you pause to notice yourself, you are choosing freedom.
ADDITIONAL UNDERSTANDING, SUPPORT, & RELIEF:
I wish each of you ease, peace, and love. #spiritposse