Healing Beyond the Surface
Understanding Complex Trauma and Its Impact on Autoimmune Conditions
Have you ever felt like you've been in survival mode your entire life, always on high alert, always looking over your shoulder for the next potential threat? You might not know why you feel this way. It may feel as though your body is fighting against you, manifesting in the form of chronic anxiety, constant vigilance, and even an autoimmune condition. If this sounds familiar, it might be connected to something deeper: complex trauma or CPTSD.
Complex trauma isn’t often talked about, but it's incredibly common, especially for women who’ve been through difficult and repeated experiences. Unlike trauma that comes from a single event (PTSD), it builds up over time, from prolonged and repeated exposure to trauma, especially when it involves a betrayal by someone you were supposed to trust. This kind of trauma leaves deeper scars, not only on your mind but on your sense of who you are and how safe you feel in the world.
This constant state of stress affects more than just your mind; it affects your entire body. Over time, it can lead to a range of symptoms, including feelings of shame, trouble connecting with others, mood swings, and even physical health issues. Many women with complex trauma also have autoimmune conditions. In these cases, your body might start attacking itself, as if it’s confused about what’s a threat and what’s not. It’s as if your body is stuck in survival mode, always on the lookout for danger, even when there is none.
So, what can you do if this sounds like your story? Healing from complex trauma is a journey, and it’s okay if it takes time. It often involves finding safe, supportive spaces to explore your feelings, learning to regulate your emotions, and slowly revisiting and processing your past experiences. It also means rebuilding a sense of trust—not only in others but in yourself and your body.
In my work with women who have autoimmune conditions, I see this connection all the time. Many of these women have complex trauma, and I believe this trauma plays a significant role in their health issues. When we start to address and heal these underlying wounds, their health often improves. My goal is to help you recognize the importance of this work, guide you to the right resources, and support you in finding the motivation to start the healing journey.
The most important thing to know is that complex trauma is not your fault, and healing is possible. You’re not alone in this, and you deserve to feel safe, both in your mind and in your body. Remember, the journey to healing starts with understanding and taking that first step toward reclaiming your peace. You are worth it.
