Trauma can lead to a disconnection from the self from "summary" of Trauma is Really Strange by Steve Haines
When we experience trauma, our sense of self can become fragmented and disconnected. This disconnection can manifest in various ways, such as feeling numb, detached, or even like a stranger to ourselves. It's as if our inner world has been shaken up, leaving us unsure of who we are or how to navigate our own thoughts and emotions. Trauma can disrupt our ability to trust ourselves and our instincts. We may second-guess our decisions, constantly seeking validation and reassurance from others. This can lead to a sense of powerlessness and dependency, further weakening our connection to our own inner resources and resilience. As a result of trauma, we may also struggle with regulating our emotions. We might feel overwhelmed by intense feelings of fear, anger, or sadness, unable to find a sense of balance or stability within ourselves. This emotional dysregulation can further alienate us from our sense of self, as we struggle to make sense of our inner world and the experiences that have shaped it. In addition to emotional dysregulation, trauma can also affect our sense of identity. We may find ourselves questioning our beliefs, values, and goals, unsure of what truly matters to us or what we stand for. This uncertainty can create a sense of disorientation and confusion, further deepening the disconnection from our authentic self.- The disconnection from the self that trauma brings can leave us feeling lost, adrift, and disconnected from our own inner compass. Without a strong sense of self to guide us, we may struggle to find our way forward and to rebuild a sense of wholeness and integration. It is only by acknowledging and addressing this disconnection that we can begin to heal and reclaim our sense of self.
