Generational trauma can be described as the emotional wounds passed down through families that can have a profound impact on the lives of individuals. It can stem from stressful or traumatic events like neglect, abuse, discrimination, loss, crime, war, etc., and it can manifest as anxiety, depression, addiction, or unhealthy relationship patterns. The trauma experienced by one generation can create a blueprint for negative behaviours and emotional responses that get passed down to future generations. But the good news is that the cycles can be broken. By understanding the roots of generational trauma and taking steps to heal yourself, you can build resilience and create a brighter future for yourself and generations that follow you.

Here's how generational trauma can affect individuals:

The first step to overcoming generational trauma is recognising its presence and acknowledging it. Some signs that you might be carrying the weight of the past can include being easily triggered or overwhelmed by situations that wouldn't usually affect other people, facing similar challenges to those faced by previous generations in your family, or doubting others because of history of betrayal and neglect in your family or turning to substances, self-harm, or isolation to manage difficult emotions. 

Healing from generational trauma is about the journey and not the destination. It can take years to heal oneself from trauma that doesn’t specifically root in themselves. Some ways one can heal from trauma which has been passed down to them are:

- Educating yourself: Learn about the history of trauma in your family and its potential impact on you.

- Seeking professional help: Therapy can provide a safe space to process past experiences and develop healthy coping mechanisms.

- Practicing self-care: Prioritize activities that nourish your mind, body, and spirit. This can include exercise, healthy eating, meditation, or spending time in nature.

- Connecting with supportive people: Surround yourself with individuals who create a safe and understanding environment.

- Rewriting your narrative: Challenge negative family stories and create a new, empowered self-narrative.

- Setting healthy boundaries: Learn to say no and prioritize your well-being.

- Practicing self-compassion: Be kind to yourself throughout the healing process. Healing takes time, and setbacks are normal.

As you heal, you can cultivate resilience, the ability to bounce back from negative emotions and situations. Some ways to build resilience can be developing healthy coping skills where one learns to manage stress and difficult emotions, practicing gratitude where one learns to foster a sense of optimism, developing growth mindset and finallt strengthening your support system to help find meaning and purpose in life. 

Breaking the cycle of generational trauma is an act of courage and self-love. By acknowledging and accepting the past, seeking support, and building resilience, you can create a future free from the limitations of the past. Remember, one is not defined by their family history – you have the power to heal and thrive in life.

If you have been struggling to cope with trauma, we urge you to talk to a mental health professional who can help you overcome it.