Dr. Nicole LePera
Dr. Nicole LePera

@Theholisticpsyc

13 Tweets 42 reads Jan 08, 2023
Being trauma aware can change the way you relate to yourself, and create healthier relationships in your life.
Here's how to practice trauma awareness:
HOW TO PRACTICE TRAUMA AWARENESS:
1. In conflict, or when giving criticism, I choose to stay connected. I do this through expressing myself in a loving (safe) way free from character attacks or shame.
2. When I am furious, I act out, or I do something I later regret, I view that behavior with curiosity:
- what was my trigger?
- why was I afraid?
- how can i help myself to feel more safe in the future?
3. When I witness someone in a high level of emotional reactivity, I see that they are hurting and are unable to express themselves in healthy ways.
NOTE: this does not mean permitting or accepting abuse.
4. I believe that we all make mistakes and that shame does not help people to change their behavior. I give grace for myself and others.
5. Behavior is communication. People are communicating with us through their behaviors, and we can choose what behaviors we allow and do not allow in our lives through boundaries.
6. We learn how to self regulate through adults in our childhood. If we didn't have safe adults to teach us how to regulate, it's our responsibility to learn and practice this as adults.
7. When triggered, we go into: fight, flight, freeze, or fawn (appeasing/people pleasing). I develop awareness for my own nervous system states and the nervous system states of others.
8. I consistently choose to view myself from a lens of self compassion, even when my inner critic is loud. I choose to speak lovingly to myself and re-direct my attention when I spiral into self shaming.
I remind myself I am safe and doing the best I can.
9. We are wired to connect and need each other. I seek support and community with safe people that share my values. And, allow me to fully self express without fear or shame.

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