01/09/2025
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π€β Talking about trauma makes it worse...... π€β
While poorly timed or inappropriate processing can be retraumatising, the myth that discussing trauma always causes more harm prevents many from seeking help. This misconception often stems from witnessing someone become distressed when sharing their story, or from cultural messages about "letting sleeping dogs lie."
Proper trauma-informed approaches actually facilitate healing by creating safety, choice, and collaboration. The key difference lies in how trauma is discussed - not whether it should be discussed at all. Trauma-informed practitioners understand the importance of titration (working with manageable portions), window of tolerance, and ensuring clients have adequate resources and coping strategies before processing.
The myth becomes particularly harmful when it's used to silence survivors or when well-meaning friends and family discourage seeking professional help. It can also lead to avoidance behaviours that actually maintain trauma symptoms over time.
What's crucial is that trauma processing happens at the client's pace, with proper support, and within their capacity to integrate the experience. This might involve somatic approaches, creative therapies, or gradual exposure work - all designed to honour the nervous system's need for safety whilst allowing natural healing processes to unfold.
The reality is that unexpressed trauma often becomes "the body keeps the score" - manifesting as physical symptoms, relationship difficulties, or mental health challenges until it's properly addressed in a supportive environment.
