More On Trauma by Susan L.

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/next/body/epigenetics-abuse/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=pbsofficial&utm_campaign=nova_next

  As more and more research is done into the effects of trauma, there's more and more confirmation that coping with the long reaching impact isn't "all in our head". This is an amazing article regarding how our DNA is affected by traumatic events that may have taken place as children. It explains a lot. Especially for adults who are left coping with the fall out from traumatic childhood events.
  The only thing I'd like to add is the definition of trauma. In the Peer Support Worker training I took, trauma was defined as "circumstances that are outside the realm of normal human experience". This doesn't take into account the situations where violence or repeated trauma are, sadly, the norm. Judith Herman (Trauma and Recovery) adds that "Traumatic events are extraordinary, not because they occur rarely, but rather that they overwhelm the ordinary human adaptations to life."
  The first definition also leaves a big question mark about what "normal" is. Under the Peer Support umbrella, we disagree with someone else defining what another's "normal" is. What is traumatic can only be described by an individual within the parameters of their personal "normal". What might impact one person could have no effect on another. There is no scale to measure trauma.
  It's wonderful that the scientific community is able to affirm and prove what those of us who have experienced childhood trauma know. Even if these things happened a long time ago, they have the power to impact our lives each and every day.
  I know first hand that God can heal the hurts. In Christ, we can find the strength and will to forgive those who have hurt us. We can also forgive ourselves for the choices we made.
   I want to be clear with that. I am not saying we are responsible for the terrible and often horrific things that have happened to us, especially as children. Even as adults, these traumas have a way of twisting our understandings and limiting our choices. We make the best decisions we can with the tools we have at the time. 
  Thank You, Lord, for Your healing grace. Thank You as well that researchers are gaining further wisdom. Thank You, Lord, for bringing this article across my path. It has been very healing for me because sometimes, just sometimes, I feel shame for living with PTSD and depression even though I know better.
  "Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, "If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."" Jn 8:31-32