Understanding Trauma: The Missing Piece in Mental Health Awareness

You cannot talk about mental health awareness without talking about trauma. It’s like trying to fix a broken leg without acknowledging that it was broken in the first place. The healing journey isn’t just about moving forward it’s about understanding what’s holding you back.

For a long time, I felt stuck. I had left behind an abusive situation, yet I couldn’t shake the feeling that I wasn’t truly free. I told myself, I’ve moved on, I should be okay now! But my body told a different story.

I was in what experts call functional freeze where you seem okay on the outside, but inside, you’re battling depression, unprocessed anger, and a lingering sense of fear. I wasn’t a victim anymore, but I also wasn’t thriving.

That’s when I stumbled upon the concept of trauma and let me tell you, it was revolutionary!

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Wait… What Exactly Is Trauma? 🤔

Trauma isn’t just about the bad things that happened to you; it’s also about how your body and mind responded to them.

It’s like this:
Imagine a gazelle escaping from a lion. It runs for its life, and if it survives, it shakes off the fear and goes back to grazing. But humans? We don’t shake it off that easily. Instead, the trauma gets stored in our bodies, keeping us stuck in fight, flight, freeze, or fawn mode.

For me, that meant feeling constantly on edge, even in safe environments. It meant I was free physically but still trapped mentally.

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Why Does Trauma Get "Stuck" in the Body? 🧠

Your brain has one job: to keep you safe. When you go through something traumatic, your nervous system kicks into survival mode. But when the danger is over, your brain doesn’t always get the memo.

That’s why:
✅ You might avoid situations that remind you of the past.
✅ You might struggle with anxiety or depression, even if "nothing is wrong."
✅ You might feel exhausted all the time (because your body is always on high alert!).

In short: Trauma doesn’t just live in your mind, it lives in your body.

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How Do You Heal Trauma? 🌿

The good news? You CAN heal. But it’s not just about "getting over it" it’s about releasing it from your body. Here’s where to start:

1️⃣ Recognize the Signs

If you feel stuck, numb, or overwhelmed for no clear reason, your body might be holding on to trauma. Awareness is the first step.

2️⃣ Move Your Body 🏃‍♀️

Trauma often gets stuck in the nervous system, so movement helps release it. Try:
✨ Stretching
✨ Dance
✨ Walking in nature
✨ Even shaking your body "The Holy Spirit Effect." (Seriously, it works!)

3️⃣ Practice Breathwork & Grounding 🌬️

Deep breathing helps signal to your brain that you are safe. Try:
💙 Box breathing (inhale for 4, hold for 4, exhale for 4, hold for 4)
💙 5-4-3-2-1 grounding (name 5 things you see, 4 things you feel, etc.)

4️⃣ Seek Support 🤝

You don’t have to do this alone! Therapy, support groups, or even talking to a trusted friend can help you process trauma in a healthy way.

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Final Thoughts: Keep Exploring, Keep Healing 💛

If you’ve ever felt like you should be over something but just can’t seem to move on—explore trauma. Healing isn’t just about forgetting the past; it’s about giving yourself permission to fully live in the present.

In my next post, I’ll dive deeper into the different types of trauma and how they affect us. But for now, know this: Your healing is possible. Your freedom is real. And you are not alone.

Sending you love & light,
Jackline 💛

(P.S. Drop a comment—Have you ever felt stuck without knowing why? Let’s talk!) ✨