26 May Guest Blog: Continuing the Journey – The Why?
By Jennifer Monroe Baize, MSSW, LCSW
Awareness
When I first started thinking about what could be helpful in other’s journey to healing who have experienced trauma; knowledge and awareness immediately came to mind. I then found myself wondering, was there one “big thing” or statement that seemed more impactful? It is then that I remembered many times in therapy sessions when sharing the information below, and asking that person to repeat certain statements, I could almost see a weight lifted off their body. I hope this brings you much peace and understanding, and be ok taking a break if while reading this you start to feel overwhelmed. Here’s what I learned…
Power of our Environment
“The way you treat a child, from the time that child is born, is what sets them up to either succeed or struggle”- Oprah Winfrey. We are not born knowing how to hate or hurt others. Experiences in our environment can make harmful actions or behaviors feel normal. Genetics/DNA can increase chances of having physical/mental health issues, but if a child has a healthy, nurturing environment, evidence shows less difficulty functioning.
You Did Nothing Wrong
How that person defined you is not who you are. You were not being a bad kid or deserved that punishment. The dress you were wearing was not too short. You never wanted to be hurt. It was that person’s responsibility to deal with his or her own pain. Reminding yourself it should have never happened and that even if others are going through their own pain it does not give them permission to harm you. Your pain is valid and real. Focus on space and lines that are comfortable with your body, and always remember your true worth. “Nothing others do is because of you. What others say or do is a projection of their own reality” Miguel Ruiz.
Healing looks different for everyone and the journey is not necessarily linear. Check out Survivor’s Healing Journey to hear from survivor’s about their healing journey and ways to both individually and as a community support survivors of abuse. If you or someone you know has a mental health problem, there are ways to get help. Check out https://www.mentalhealth.gov/get-help to learn more.
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