When I was growing up, there was little to no understanding of the impact of childhood trauma and intergenerational trauma on a child, let alone the life-long impact. Trauma was not an everyday word. Emotional literacy and emotional intelligence were not discussed. 

I grew up in a middle-class, strict, and, sadly, critical environment that used corporal punishment. My parents did their best with what they knew; they ensured we had food, clothing, shelter, and play activities. However, the ‘soft skills,’ the interpersonal skills, the relationship-building skills – not so much. I don’t recall experiencing warm affection. Praise and commendation were rarely given. To my demise, I suffered through terrifying events and endured sexual, physical, and emotional abuse – at home.

Throughout adulthood, I sought out mental health support. In 2018 a new awareness of my childhood trauma surfaced. Emotional flashbacks began to shut me down. I was developing agoraphobic tendencies. The emotional pain was intense. I was struggling with burnout – a physical and mental collapse. These were dark times. I felt I was unraveling.

I felt hopeless and wondered if I was always going to be like this. I was diagnosed with Complex PTSD. Being curious, I noticed symptoms of Developmental Trauma and PTSD too. Therapy started me on the healing path. I became a voracious reader so I could understand what happened to me and its impact. Healing brought new insights, perspectives, and glimmers of freedom. Even with the struggles, I felt fortunate to be alive because of neuroscience and traumatologist findings, thereby validating neuroplasticity and offering hope! Now I believe healing and trauma recovery are possible….. today! 

I chose to invest in myself and have worked hard to recover from my own childhood trauma. I have gained insight and grown so much since that pivotal year. Trauma recovery is ongoing; there is no magic pill. It is taking one baby step at a time.