The Power to Heal

Powerlessness as a victim skews our vision of the world and our role in our own life. Often, we claim responsibility for our abusers’ actions because it eases the sense of absolute powerlessness. Believing we are “bad,” means we can believe we have power to change and stop the abuse. Abusers accuse the victim of being the problem. Somehow it is easier for the victim to accept that lie than the enormity of the truth.

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Survivor Shift: From Surviving to Thriving

I’ve noticed in my volunteer work with others who suffer from PTSD and other effects of severe trauma, that there is a point where the survivor becomes less burdened and more able to find peace in their healing journey. I call this point in healing a Survivor Shift– where there is a change in thought…

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Understanding Dissociation

While it is difficult to comprehend, the victim of severe trauma has no control over the dissociation. It is a safety mechanism our brains have developed to preserve us during impossible circumstances. Often, the victim is unaware of the dissociation until they are in a safe space (both physically and emotionally) to deal with the trauma.

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Freedom in Sharing

There is freedom in sharing our stories, our burdens, and triumphs along the way. With sharing, newfound strength can help us navigate the future.

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Pity or Compassion

Pity or feeling sorry for someone who is suffering tends to focus on the horror. It can blind us to the person behind the barrier. It can look like you don’t believe they can ever overcome the trauma. Compassion focuses on the victim’s capabilities rather than brokenness. Helping a victim isn’t about reaching down, but…

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How Abuse Skews Our Identity

Abuse skews our identity, but doesn’t change it. We can choose to stay in the muck of the pain and anguish or we can choose to own our lives and discover nurture our true identities.

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