S1E9 Is Retelling My Trauma Story Helpful or Harmful?

In this episode, I examine how our thoughts, words, and actions in unforgiveness can result in sin that we may not even be aware of committing. I also caution against advice I was given in the early stages of my recovery from sexual abuse.

The advice I got was to retell my story in all the minute detail to anyone who would listen, with the understanding that validation cures trauma. However, with each retelling of my stories, I was strengthening the neural networks in my brain that held the trauma. I was making myself sicker by reliving the trauma with each retelling.

We know now about neuroplasticity and the ability to form new neural networks through mind-body modalities in addition to the healing we receive through our relationship with God. As the term neuroplasticity indicates, our brains are not static, what we think and believe and how we behave as a result can change, and with it, the structures in the brain that hold those thoughts and memories can also change. We can’t change the circumstances, but we can change our thoughts and behavior about the circumstances to help us move through the pain to a healthier version of ourselves.

I also sinned against God in how I retold my stories and formed judgments about my offenders, failing to see how my judgments hardened my heart in unforgiveness. By recognizing which sins I was committing, I was able to take full responsibility for how to respond rather than react to my trauma and make space for God to heal me.

If this podcast resonates with you, please hit subscribe below.

Write a review, share the link with a friend, take a screenshot, and share it on your social media.

Connect with me as your forgiveness guide at www.drcarron.com. I will hold space for you as your Christian Life Coach as you work through your pain and rewrite your story. Sign up HERE for a discovery call.

Not ready for coaching? Sign up for my 5 Days to Forgiveness Self-Guided Mini-Audio Retreat.

Email me at info@drcarron.com to schedule a speaking engagement at your church or small faith-sharing group.

Remember Friend, Forgiveness is for You.