The Ghost of Christmas Past What’s always coming at the same time every year? Christmas! And if you grew up in a dysfunctional family, navigating the Christmas season can feel complicated. The build-up creates expectations of a warm, joyful, and loving time with family. An idealized version of the holiday that seems to be a...
The Pain of Parentification As a child, you were growing up too soon if you experienced: Being the peacekeeper and mediating conflict with adults around you Raising siblings Keeping the entire house clean, doing the washing, cooking, ironing, shopping “Stepping up” to take the place of an absent parent Keeping dangerous secrets for a loved...
Three main effects Did you grow up in a dysfunctional family? If you never really talk about growing up. It can feel like a sticky subject. You describe your family as difficult, tricky, or complicated. You may have likely lived with caregivers or parents who experienced generational trauma and may have exhibited chemical dependence, mental...
8 Signs of Post Traumatic Growth Post-traumatic stress is commonly talked about. Understandably. This is the effect of prolonged and complex trauma on our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. And it really leaves its mark if unhealed, as a painful wound affecting every aspect of life. Trying to feel safe when safety may never have...
6 tips for dealing with a difficult family It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Full of Christmas cheer, warmth and kindness. Opening gifts, eating good food and spending enjoyable time with family. Furthermore – time off work! What’s not to love. This is the perfect family stereotype, that in reality doesn’t exist –...