In unhealthy or abusive relationships, many complex feelings and dynamics can develop over time. These relationships are rarely simple, which can make them difficult to end. In the case of trauma-bonded relationships, breaking a trauma bond can be a long and involved process. However, with the right help from a…
Trauma dumping refers to a situation where an individual shares their traumatic experiences in an overwhelming, often boundary-violating manner without the listener’s consent. While it’s not always intentional, trauma dumping typically crosses interpersonal boundaries and may cause the listener to feel overwhelmed or trapped. Learn more about how to spot…
Trauma can have a variety of impacts on survivors, and each is often intense in its own way. One such impact traumatic experiences can have is called a “trauma bond.” Trauma bonding is a strong connection that occurs between victims/survivors and perpetrators of trauma or abuse. These bonds are complex…
Trauma can have huge impacts on the life of the person who experienced it, but it can also have echoes in families for generations. Generational trauma occurs when someone experiences a traumatic event and the impact it has on that person is “passed down” or continues to be experienced by…
Trauma and PTSD are often intertwined yet distinct experiences. Trauma encapsulates a range of distressing events, from accidents to emotional harm, while PTSD represents a specific set of symptoms and a clinical diagnosis resulting from exposure to trauma. This article delves into the differentiation between the two, shedding light on…
EMDR stands for eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, and it is a psychotherapy approach that is primarily used to treat trauma-related disorders and emotional distress. Developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR has gained recognition as an effective treatment for various mental health issues, particularly post-traumatic stress disorder…
Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) is a psychological condition that can develop in those who have experienced prolonged and/or repetitive traumatic events in their lives. In a CPTSD vs. PTSD matchup, these conditions may seem similar, but in reality, they are different in many ways. Take a closer look with…
It is entirely natural to experience a range of emotions after a traumatic event. Most people recover from these initial reactions and feelings within a few weeks. However, if you have ongoing problems, there could be something else going on, like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This practical guide will help…
Sexual trauma can occur in many forms and for survivors often results in short- or long-term psychological consequences, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and more. In the days and weeks following occurrences of sexual trauma, survivors may grapple with confusion, guilt, social withdrawal, and anger. Despite its potential to cause psychological…
A traumatic event is an extremely distressing experience. We’re talking physical injury or violence, serious illness, and natural disasters – these are all examples of trauma. These events cause physical, mental, and emotional harm to victims. And sometimes, they even trigger the development of a mental health disorder: one being…
Your abuser does not get to define the rest of your life. You can know this intellectually, but it’s a whole different beast to know it in your body. People who experience sexual assault might internalize their fear and trauma so they continue to feel unsafe in their skin. They…
Childhood, if nothing else, is a memorable period of our lives. Hopefully, we can recall blissful memories: of holidays, old friends, family vacations, and time spent simply running around, doing all the things kids do. But not every childhood experience is so positive—some of us have adverse childhood experiences. In…
