When Trauma Resurfaces
If old pain or memories are coming back, it doesn’t mean you’re broken — it means your body finally feels safe enough to heal. Resurfacing trauma can feel intense, but it’s a sign of progress, not failure. Here’s how to move through it with compassion and steadiness.
Understanding The Return of Old Wounds
"So, you know when old memories suddenly pop up?” Yes, it happens to the best of us.
Sometimes, a familiar scent or scene can transport you right back to the hurt. Like when your favorite song takes you to your childhood home.
But here, instead of nostalgia, it's pain.
"I used to think those haunting memories were coming back. Turns out, they never left. I just got really good at playing hide and seek with them.”
Valerie shared her story about working tirelessly at St. John Ambulance, being there for everyone. But one day, the weight of her buried trauma caught up. The result? An emotional crash.
The countless hours she put into helping others was her escape, her way of avoiding her pain. But the truth? It was a ticking bomb.
“I'd see an older man on the street, and my mind would race with a million thoughts., "When my kiddos were tiny, something as simple as bath time became an emotional whirlwind. I’d get flashbacks..”
That's the tricky thing about trauma; it doesn't need a big stage. It can creep in during the smallest, most mundane moments.
But here’s the thing. . .It's not all doom and gloom!
When her teenage son wants to chat about school bullies or his first crush, that’s when things really got challenging. She feels that sting. But now, she can handle it.
“ Deep breaths, focusing on his words, staying in the moment – these are my shields now. ”
What’s the secret sauce?
It’s not rocket science, but it needs heart and hustle.
After a tough chat, she'd indulge in ice cream, or take a quiet walk, or dive into a book.
It's all about knowing when you're sliding and catching yourself before the fall.
It's all about finding what clicks for you.
Recognizing and Coping with Resurfacing Pain
Here’s the real kicker: everyone faces trauma differently.
Some see it as a beast to defeat, others as a shadow to outshine. When those old feelings come knocking, many just want to bolt the door and hide.
And honestly, that’s okay.
But facing it? That’s where the magic happens.
I once read something powerful by Emerson. To put it simply:
“You’ve got the power. The only thing that can really beat you? It’s you. When you’re clear about where you’re headed, the journey becomes easier."
Remember Valerie's story? . .
It's not about the absence of trauma, but about being equipped to handle its surprises.
When Trauma Knocks Again: Your Strength and Choice in Facing It
Thinking about that two-sided coin of trauma:
When does it pop back up? How?
And, the big one. . . what on earth do you do when it does?
Many of us, maybe even you, feel trapped, cornered by that returning trauma. The echo of "I can't deal with it" is something we hear often. It’s like this haunting background music that won’t turn off.
But here's a wake-up call: Handling trauma? It's a choice. Yep, that's right. And sometimes, that choice comes from places you'd least expect.
Your environment might nudge you, saying, “Hey, it's time to face this.” Or maybe your own brain (sneaky thing that it is) decides, “We need to sort this out.” If you're not stepping up, life has a way of forcing your hand. But the great thing is, everyone has the power to face, fight, and ultimately find strength through their trauma.
Overcoming Tough Times
Trauma might return because of some sneaky trigger, but guess what? Now, we’ve got tools in our arsenal. It would no longer bowl you over. Instead, you can see it, address it, and keep moving."
So, when the ghosts of the past pay a visit, the question is. . .
“ Will they knock you down, or will you stand tall? "
The answer? Load up your toolkit. Maybe it's scribbling your thoughts in a journal. Maybe it's dancing like nobody's watching. Or maybe it’s just a deep breath. Just remember to catch yourself."
If you ever need a guide, you may check the book, Put That Stuff Down 2nd edition. Our mission? To hand you the tools, so you can build a fortress."
In Conclusion
Life's a merry-go-round. . . There'll be highs and lows.
For everyone. . . Rich or poor, young or old. . .
. . . it's all about decluttering the soul. So, when that trauma tries to resurface, will it overpower you? Or will you stay strong, and ready?
Dive deep, rise strong, and keep shining.
If you ever wonder about how to arm yourself for such moments, take a look at what the book Put That Stuff Down 2nd edition has to offer. The goal? To equip you with what you need. Because when trauma resurfaces, it's not about how strong it comes back, but about how strong you stand against it.
Remember, you create the life you want.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why does trauma come back years later?
Sometimes, your body waits until you’re ready. When it senses more safety — through calm routines, stability, or support — it may bring old emotions to the surface so they can finally heal.
What are signs my trauma is resurfacing?
You might feel waves of sadness, tension, or anxiety that seem to come out of nowhere. These aren’t random — they’re echoes of experiences your body is learning to release.
How do I handle resurfacing trauma safely?
Go slowly. Ground through your senses — breathe, notice your surroundings, or touch something comforting. Reach out for trauma-informed support when it feels too heavy to carry alone.
