The term "childhood trauma" may stir up different emotions in you. You might feel cautious in referring to your experiences with this label. Yes, childhood was not a happy time, but does it count as "traumatic?" On the other hand, you might feel clear about this label. You are aware that childhood sucked. There were …
Drinking and Postpartum Depression
Your world feels chaotic and there's no escape. There are endless hours between naps, feedings and the constant fatigue. There is no one around to talk to and you feel overwhelmed and frustrated all the time. Having one more drink feels awful, but it gives you that escape you've been craving. Sound familiar? Whether you …
Struggling with body image during pregnancy
The worst part of prenatal visits? Going to your healthcare provider's office and stepping on that scale at Every. Single. Appointment. As if you need any reminder that your weight is increasing at an alarming rate. You know this. You feel huge. No other pregnant mom looks as big as you do. You shouldn't have …
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How to overcome shame
Why is it so hard to overcome shame? What keeps our shame cycle going? If you've struggled with shame, you're well aware how debilitating it can feel. It can take over and impact your actions, decisions and the ways in which you feel about yourself. I hope this post will provide you some clarity in being with your shame. #mentalhealth #shame #shamecycle #IFS #internalfamilysystems #therapy
Shame and the postpartum experience
One of the biggest aversions to attending postpartum therapy is shame. You feel ashamed that your emotions are messy. This isn't like you. Normally, you're calm and cool. But, suddenly your hormones are all over the place, your hair is a mess and you can't remember the last time you showered. There hasn't been a …
Starting trauma therapy? Tips to support those initial fears
It's normal to feel a bit nervous when you're connecting with a new therapist especially when you're starting trauma therapy. This is the person you intend to tell your vulnerable history, and pray that they know what to do with all that information. The idea of opening up to share your lowest times can be …
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The fear of abandonment: Why am I trying so hard?
Does the fear of abandonment push you to act in undesirable ways? How often do you jump through hoops to suit another person? Do you feel a constant pressure to do more and be more so that others are not upset with you? To cope with these fears, you may have learned to keep your …
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Should I be concerned about PTSD?
If you have survived a traumatic experience, it's natural that you are feeling worried about how to proceed. You may have many concerns running through your mind: How long will I feel this way? Am I supposed to seek treatment? Is it normal for me to feel like this? Whether it's an unsettling birth experience, …
Working with unwanted feelings
When I am feeling anxious, unhappy or generally lousy, I hate the idea of mindfully noticing these unwanted feelings. There is intense resistance to "sitting with" or accepting my emotions. During these low moments, I have zero understanding or time for my feelings. My only goal is to get rid of them. I imagine many …
Why am I feeling stuck in my trauma?
Even years after a traumatic experience, we can feel stuck in a place of emotional distress. In therapy, I noticed that many trauma survivors would struggle to find self-compassion. They would get caught in an endless loop of self-blame and resentment. Other clients were keen to begin therapy; however, they were easily overwhelmed once they …