Safe People

Relationships with safe people and how we can embrace them without fear, especially after coming through storms where safety was not a guarantee. When you’ve lived through emotional manipulation, control, betrayal, or any form of trauma, the idea of trusting again — of letting someone close — can feel like walking a tightrope without a net.… Read More Safe People

“You Matter Too: Why It’s Time to Prioritise Your Health After Abuse”

“You Matter Too: Why It’s Time to Prioritise Your Health After Abuse” While you’ve been consumed with surviving—navigating the minefield of emotional manipulation, walking on eggshells, and bending yourself in every direction just to maintain some sense of peace at home—it’s likely you’ve put yourself last. You’ve spent years pandering to your abuser’s moods, trying… Read More “You Matter Too: Why It’s Time to Prioritise Your Health After Abuse”

When the Enteric Nervous System (ENS) Is Out of Balance

When the Enteric Nervous System (ENS) and the Interoceptive Nervous System (INS) get out of balance, it can significantly impact both physical and mental health. These systems are deeply interconnected with the brain, meaning dysregulation can lead to symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma responses, and digestive issues. Here’s what can happen when they are disrupted: 1. When the Enteric Nervous… Read More When the Enteric Nervous System (ENS) Is Out of Balance

Key Research Findings on Life Expectancy Reduction

The exact number of years that long-term abuse can shorten a person’s life span varies depending on factors like the type of abuse, its duration, and an individual’s overall health and resilience. However, research suggests that survivors of chronic abuse—especially those who experience childhood trauma or long-term intimate partner violence—can have a life expectancy reduced by… Read More Key Research Findings on Life Expectancy Reduction

Shortened Life Span

Long-term abuse, whether it is emotional, physical, sexual, or psychological, can have significant and often lasting effects on both the body and life span. These effects can vary depending on the type of abuse, the duration, and the individual’s coping mechanisms, but research has shown that chronic exposure to abuse contributes to several physical, emotional,… Read More Shortened Life Span

Trauma has a profound and complex impact on the brain

Trauma has a profound and complex impact on the brain, affecting various regions and systems. Here’s a breakdown of how trauma affects the brain scientifically: 1. The Amygdala (Fear Center) The amygdala plays a crucial role in processing emotions, particularly fear. When someone experiences trauma, the amygdala becomes hyperactive, heightening sensitivity to potential threats. This can… Read More Trauma has a profound and complex impact on the brain

The Brain

Hippocampus The hippocampus is a curved, seahorse-shaped structure located in the medial temporal lobe of the brain, within the limbic system. It plays a critical role in memory formation, learning, and spatial navigation. The hippocampus is essential for converting short-term memories into long-term ones, allowing us to retain past experiences. It also helps us recognize environments and navigate through space. Damage… Read More The Brain