What if I’m NOT thankful for anything this Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving often comes wrapped in the pressure to celebrate togetherness, express gratitude, and enjoy festive meals. But if you have unresolved childhood trauma, the holiday can feel more like a storm of stress, anxiety, and old wounds. For many, it’s not the turkey or the pie that’s the problem—it’s the family dynamics, unspoken expectations, and the weight of the past.
Fear of abandonment and rejection: anxious attachment
Anxious attachment, a term rooted in attachment theory, describes a style of relating to others characterized by a deep-seated fear of abandonment and rejection. This attachment style often develops in childhood and can significantly influence one's adult relationships. Understanding anxious attachment and its implications is crucial for fostering healthier connections and personal well-being.
The impact of trauma: PTSD vs. C-PTSD
Trauma can have profound and lasting impacts on an individual's life, influencing their mental, emotional, and physical well-being. While trauma responses can manifest in various forms, two primary conditions are commonly discussed: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD). Understanding the nuances between these two disorders is crucial for effective treatment and support.
CPTSD as a conditioning/thought virus
Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) is a condition that affects many individuals who have experienced prolonged trauma. Unlike PTSD, which often results from a single traumatic event, CPTSD is the result of repeated exposure to traumatic situations, such as long-term abuse or neglect. This can lead to deeply ingrained negative thought patterns that affect one's sense of self and overall mental health.
Perfectionism and letting go of control
Perfectionism and high-performing anxiety are more common than you might think, and they often go hand in hand, creating a relentless pressure to excel in every aspect of life. But, beneath the surface of apparent success lies a tangled web of self-doubt and overwhelm. In this blog post, we’ll explore the roots of perfectionism, its ties to childhood trauma, and practical strategies for finding peace amidst the chaos.