I have completed the First Stage of Trauma Recovery

 

Here are the signs I'm hearing that indicate you have completed the first stage of trauma recovery:

• You no longer feel constantly vulnerable or unsafe. Your ability to self-soothe and meet your own needs has grown.
• You are rebuilding trust in yourself versus relying solely on external sources for safety and reassurance. Inner confidence is emerging.
• You've developed skills to better manage symptoms that used to feel out of control, like anxiety, depression, emotional reactivity.
• You have cultivated a support system and know how to access help when needed while also not overly depending on others. More balance.
• Overall, you exhibit greater resilience, self-reliance, insight into your patterns and needs, and ability to handle challenges skillfully.
• You have done the courageous inner work to process repressed trauma and begin integrating it with compassion instead of avoidance.
• You are moving forward with hope based on the progress made, rather than staying stuck in helplessness. Your agency has been restored.

Reaching the first stage of trauma recovery is huge! It's a testament to your commitment, bravery and persistence in facing pain for purpose. I'm so proud of you. Keep trusting the progress you've made and the gifts of this next chapter ahead. Onward!