We can only begin to heal from the ‘submit’ response when we are out of the abusive environment that caused it. Safety is the main priority, and if we are not safe, our nervous system is not safe to relax and switch off our trauma response. We need to get away from the trauma.
Once we are safe, we can begin the healing process. The best way to start healing is with a trauma and attachment-focused therapist. Wounds that are created relationally need to be healed relationally. With a therapist, we have the opportunity to have different relational experiences. This can be deeply healing.
Drop an emoji if you have found therapy helpful at some time in your life – let’s destigmatise getting support for experiences you should never have had to endure.
Reference: Lecture with Dr Arielle Swartz