Trauma is derived from a Greek word that literally means ‘wound’.
Physical and psychological injuries are a part of life; no one can escape them. When we are wounded, we need the right care and support from the people around us to heal.
As emotional wounds are invisible by nature, they can be easily dismissed and overlooked, especially if the environment is already stressed.
If emotional wounds are not tended to, they don't just heal automatically but instead get frozen in time space continuum and continue to rob your present time.
So, how can you know if you’re carrying any unhealed wounds?
Unhealed emotional wounds can stealthily reside within us, affecting our thoughts, behaviors, and relationships without us even realizing it. Identifying these wounds is the first step towards healing and reclaiming emotional well-being. But how do you know if you're carrying any unhealed wounds? Here are some signs of Unhealed Trauma :
Persistent Negative Patterns: Do you find yourself repeating negative patterns in your relationships or behaviors? These could include self-sabotage, fear of intimacy, or difficulty in trusting others. These patterns often stem from past emotional wounds that are yet to be addressed.
Emotional Triggers: Certain situations or conversations may trigger intense emotional reactions that seem disproportionate to the present circumstance. These triggers could be connected to past traumas or unresolved emotions that still linger within you.
Avoidance and Denial: Do you actively avoid discussing or confronting certain topics or emotions? Avoidance and denial are common defense mechanisms used to shield ourselves from painful feelings associated with unhealed wounds.
Low Self-Esteem and Self-Worth: Unhealed emotional wounds can significantly impact our self-esteem and self-worth. Feelings of inadequacy, unworthiness, or a persistent inner critic may indicate underlying emotional wounds that need attention.
Difficulty in Forming Healthy Relationships: Healthy relationships require vulnerability, trust, and emotional intimacy. If you find yourself struggling to form or maintain healthy connections with others, it could be a sign of unresolved emotional wounds affecting your ability to trust and connect with others.
Chronic Stress and Anxiety: Lingering emotional wounds can manifest as chronic stress, anxiety, or even physical symptoms like headaches or stomach issues. The body often mirrors the emotional turmoil within, signaling the need for emotional healing.
Self-Destructive Behavior: Engaging in self-destructive behaviors such as substance abuse, overeating, or reckless behavior can be a way of coping with unhealed emotional pain. These behaviors provide temporary relief but exacerbate the underlying wounds in the long run.
Recognizing these signs is the first step towards acknowledging and addressing unhealed emotional wounds. Seeking support from a trauma-trained therapist with a body-mind approach to explore and heal these wounds, paves the way for greater emotional resilience and well-being. Remember, healing is a journey, and taking the first step towards awareness is a powerful stride towards emotional liberation.
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Author
Anitha.D - Relational, Somatic, Trauma Therapist
Founder & Counselling Psychologist - "The Mind Body Foundation - Counselling Center"