Trauma Rewired

Complexities of The Holidays And Trauma

Dec 16, 2024
The complex emotions of the holiday season often collide with feelings of loneliness and overwhelm, especially for those with a trauma background. The hosts discuss how sensory triggers can evoke intense emotional responses and the importance of setting boundaries to manage social expectations. Personal stories illuminate the journey from maladaptive coping mechanisms to healthier strategies. Listeners are encouraged to practice self-care, navigate food relationships mindfully, and embrace imperfection during the festive chaos for a more fulfilling experience.
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INSIGHT

Holiday Stress and Trauma

  • The holiday season, while joyful for some, can be a source of dysregulation for those with complex trauma.
  • It presents amplified expectations, social anxieties, and perfectionism, contributing to emotional distress.
ANECDOTE

Childhood Holiday Trauma and Binging

  • Jennifer Wallace shares a childhood holiday memory involving a predatory uncle whose teasing was brushed off by family.
  • This triggered early binging behaviors as a coping mechanism for the resulting shame and fear.
INSIGHT

Sensory Triggers and Emotional Flashbacks

  • Traumatic holiday memories can resurface due to sensory triggers like smells, sounds, or specific energies associated with the season.
  • These triggers activate neurotags linked to past trauma, causing emotional flashbacks and distress.
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