C-PTSD: Let's Make Sense Of This Sh*t6 Okt 2025

When Gratitude Feels Impossible - Finding Your Way | Trauma Podcast

In this episode, we explore the raw challenge of trying to practice gratitude when your nervous system is stuck in survival mode. For trauma survivors, gratitude can feel forced, fake, or even impossible—but it doesn't have to be. We break down why gratitude often backfires for CPTSD survivors, how to approach it without shame, and the small shifts that can make it feel genuine and healing.

What You'll Learn:
• Why gratitude can feel triggering for trauma survivors
• How to distinguish forced positivity from authentic appreciation
• A simple 30-second practice to start when gratitude feels impossible
• The role of self-compassion in rebuilding gratitude capacity
• How to reframe gratitude as a gentle, gradual skill—not a moral obligation

Key Insights:
• Gratitude is not a cure; it's a resource that must be trauma-informed
• Trying to force gratitude can activate shame and inner critic loops
• Somatic safety comes before any gratitude practice will stick
• Small, specific moments of noticing are more effective than big thankfulness lists
• Anger and grief can coexist with gratitude—you don't have to choose

Recommended Resources:
• "The Body Keeps the Score" by Bessel van der Kolk
• "Complex PTSD: From Surviving to Thriving" by Pete Walker
• Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy model

📩 Have questions or want to share your experience? Reach out at cptsd@senseofthisshit.com.
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