13/05/2025
The lasting impact of chronic trauma often lies not in the traumatic events themselves, but in how survivors come to relate to themselves as a result
In CPTSD, which typically arises from prolonged, repeated trauma, especially in relational contexts like childhood abuse or neglect the individual often internalises deep feelings of shame, worthlessness, and self-loathing.
These internal states can become more debilitating than the original events, shaping a person's identity and undermining their ability to feel safe, connected, and worthy. Rather than processing and integrating the trauma, the person turns the pain inward, blaming themselves or feeling fundamentally flawed.
Healing from CPTSD, therefore, often involves rebuilding a compassionate, accepting relationship with the self, addressing the emotional and physiological imprints of trauma, and gently undoing the toxic beliefs born from chronically unsafe environments.
