Trauma, PTSD and the Present Moment

Trauma does not only live in memories—it lives in the body.

For those with PTSD or unresolved trauma, current events can trigger emotional flashbacks, heightened fear responses, or a sense of loss of control. News headlines, conversations, social media, or changes in leadership and policy can activate old survival patterns, even if you can’t immediately identify why.

You might notice:
    •    Feeling “on edge” without a clear cause
    •    Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
    •    A strong urge to withdraw, numb out, or stay constantly busy
    •    Increased irritability, anger, or emotional shutdown
    •    A sense that the future feels unsafe or uncertain

These responses are not overreactions—they are trauma responses.

You Are Not Meant to Carry This Alone.

One of the most harmful messages people internalize is that they should be able to “handle it” on their own. Trauma-informed care recognizes that healing happens in safe relationships, not isolation.

Therapy can help you:
    •    Understand how anxiety shows up in your body
    •    Identify what is being triggered now versus what belongs to the past
    •    Learn grounding and regulation skills that actually work for trauma
    •    Reduce shame around your responses
    •    Rebuild a sense of safety, choice, and control

Trauma-focused therapy does not force you to relive painful experiences. Instead, it helps your nervous system learn that the present moment is different—and that you have more capacity and support than you once did.

Small Steps That Matter Right Now

While therapy is an important tool, there are also gentle ways to support yourself in the meantime:
    •    Limit constant exposure to distressing media
    •    Ground yourself in what is physically present (your breath, your feet, your surroundings)
    •    Maintain routines that signal safety to your body
    •    Allow space for rest without guilt
    •    Name what you are feeling—anxiety loses power when it is acknowledged

You do not need to fix everything. Regulation happens in moments, not perfection.

Just because you haven’t had it before doesn’t mean it’s out of reach. Ready to accept your past and move confidently into a more authentic future? Schedule your first appointment today for trauma therapy.