Episode 37: Childhood Trauma and Coping with Holiday Stress

Peggy Oliveira Author

Episode Description:

This episode originally aired on YouTube.

The holiday season can be a stressful time for everyone. For survivors of childhood trauma, there are often many, often complicated, layers of wounding that add to the difficulty this time of year can bring.

In today's episode, I’ll share the (sometimes) hidden layers, the impact it can have, and some suggestions for navigating through it… with a personal message toward the end if you are someone who struggles with the holiday season.

If this time of year is difficult for you, please know you are not alone. ❤️

Don’t want to wait for the next episode? Head over to my YouTube Channel, PegygOliveiraMSW, with over 300 videos about Impact & Healing from Childhood Trauma.

If you have a question you’d like me to answer related to healing from childhood or emotional trauma, please send to qanda@courageousjourneys.com

This podcast is for informational purposes and is not mental health advice nor a replacement for professional mental health treatment.

Episode Notes:

-Peggy discusses how certain times of the year, such as holidays, can be challenging for individuals with childhood trauma, leading to various struggles like irritability, withdrawal, or the use of unhealthy coping mechanisms.

-She highlights that individuals may be deeply affected by trauma during holidays without conscious awareness. Examples include the anniversary of an abuser's death or specific dates associated with traumatic events.

-She emphasizes the significance of bringing awareness to one's struggles during these times and advises against self-judgment. People are encouraged to acknowledge their feelings without shame and practice self-compassion.

-She addresses the societal expectations during holidays, stressing that individuals should not judge themselves for not conforming to the expected happiness. She suggests being mindful of self-talk and practicing self-compassion during this time.

-She recommends proactive self-care, including deliberate downtime, therapy sessions, connecting with supportive individuals, and avoiding isolation. Journaling is also suggested as a helpful tool for processing feelings and fostering connection with others who may be experiencing similar struggles.

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Categories: Podcast