Healing Trauma's Shame
Ever felt like you're watching your life from the outside, like you're not quite "there"? For those who have experienced trauma, this feeling, known as dissociation, can be a common and often confusing experience. Let's talk about how shame, that heavy feeling of "not being good enough," can play a big role in this.
The Body's Way of Saying "Too Much"
Trauma can overwhelm our bodies and minds. When we experience something incredibly painful, our nervous system might go into survival mode. Dissociation is one of those survival tactics. It's like our brain hits a pause button, a way to protect us from feelings that are too intense to handle at the moment. Think of it as your body's way of saying, "This is too much, I need to step away for a while."
Shame: The Unseen Trigger
Now, let's talk about shame. For trauma survivors, shame can be a constant companion. It whispers things like, "You're broken," or "It's all your fault." When shame gets triggered, it can feel unbearable. This is where dissociation often steps in. It's like shame is the match, and dissociation is the smoke, trying to hide the fire.
The Internal Critic: Imagine that inner voice that's always putting you down. That's the voice of shame. For trauma survivors, this voice can be incredibly loud and relentless.
Feeling Unsafe: When shame takes over, it can make us feel incredibly unsafe, even when we're physically safe. This feeling of unsafety can trigger dissociation.
Finding Your Way Back to the Present
The good news is, there are ways to gently bring yourself back to the present moment. It's about finding small, safe ways to connect with your body and your surroundings.
Grounding Techniques: Simple things like feeling your feet on the floor, holding a comforting object, or focusing on your breath can help you feel more grounded.
Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself. Remember, dissociation is a survival response, not a weakness. Practice speaking to yourself with the same compassion you'd offer a friend.
Safe Connections: Connecting with safe, supportive people can also help. Sharing your experiences, when you're ready, can be incredibly healing.
Therapy: A Safe Space to Explore
If you're experiencing dissociation, therapy can provide a safe space to explore these experiences and develop coping strategies. I can help you understand the connection between trauma, shame, and dissociation, and guide you in finding ways to heal.
Remember, you're not alone in this. Healing is a journey, and with gentle self-compassion and support, you can find your way back to the present moment.
If you recognise any of these feelings, and feel you would like to explore this further, please do not hesitate to get in touch.
