For survivors, it's tough enough navigating daily life in the wake of a traumatic past, but add in all of the pressures of being bombarded with news and current events 24/7, and the struggle gets exponentially more difficult.
I too struggle with my own thoughts and even my most trusted coping strategies are taxed to their limits at times trying to stay grounded while "fighting the good fight" as it were, to raise awareness and get involved in areas that I'm passionate about. It feels like an uphill battle that gets steeper and steeper, even with the best plan and self-care strategies in place.
That's why I wanted to spend some time chatting with friend, colleague, and returning guest to the podcast, Rachel Grant. From the very first time that we collaborated back in the earlier episodes of the show, we've developed a friendship and mutual respect for each other not only as advocates and survivors, but as everyday people just trying to find our way in this world and make a difference while we continue to heal.
Rachel Grant is a Sexual Abuse Survivor Coach, with an M.A. in Counseling Psychology. Her website, RachelGrantCoaching.com features not only her individual and group work with survivors, but also her book "Beyond Surviving", Facebook Group, Master Class, and free and low-cost Audible Downloads covering topics such as Shame, Boundaries, Abandonment, and much more.
Some of the topics that Rachel and I discuss on this episode include:
Feelings of Shame and Triggers that can arise in regards to the mass violence and political climate across the world.
"Mentally Ill" labels being tossed around in negative and stigmatizing ways in regards to school and church shootings, gun control, world leaders, and those who suffer with depression.
Getting involved in causes that we believe in, and trying to do too much.
Looking at labels in a different context, as a way to help feel inspired and educated, and provide direction towards treatment and resources.
Learning to pause, think before we speak and react, when it comes to highly charged situations, reducing anxiety, and in everyday life.
Using "service" to help get out of our heads, reduce burnout, and re-energize for not only our own journey but our involvement in causes we are passionate in.
Thank you again Rachel from coming back on the podcast and sharing your insight and heartfelt message for survivors. I've learned so much from you and I look forward to our collaborative work in the future.
Be sure and check out RachelGrantCoaching.com and follow her on Twitter: @CoachRachelG.
-Matthew Pappas, CLC, CPNLP