Why has it affected me in this way?
Impact: For example, the earlier the abuse occurs; the longer it goes on for; the closer the relationship; the severity of the behaviour; their isolation; their response to disclosure; the more trauma someone has to contend with. That is, there is greater impact from earlier, prolonged, multiple trauma, from people they are most dependent on, and when there is no-one to tell.
Effects on relationships: Because abuse is inflicted by another person, it can be difficult to trust people afterwards. Even if the person is trying to be kind, then it may be suspected that it is to manipulate them in some way.
Survival mechanisms: Some of the ways we respond to trauma can cause problems, for example dissociative detachment is linked with depersonalisation; control with eating disorders and obsessions; self-hatred and helplessness with depression, fear with anxiety. There are many unintended consequences of survival responses.
Consider more:
u003colu003ern tu003cliu003eIn what ways have past traumatic experiences, especially those occurring early in life, shaped your ability to trust others and navigate relationships, and how do these impacts influence your current interactions and connections?u003c/liu003ern tu003cliu003eReflecting on your coping mechanisms in response to trauma, are there patterns of behaviour or survival strategies that you recognise as potentially affecting your overall wellbeing, and what steps might you consider taking to foster healthier coping mechanisms moving forward?u003c/liu003ernu003c/olu003e