More than forty years after being bullied for being gay at high school, I can still remember the fear, shame and desperation it created. Growing up gay in 1983, as the AIDS crisis was emerging, intensified a belief that something was fundamentally wrong with me. This is not a story about blaming the people who bullied me. It is about what bullying can leave behind, how shame can become internalised, and how the need to prove our worth can shape a life long after the school corridors are gone.

Embracing Resilience: Understanding Post-Traumatic Growth

In the face of adversity and trauma, the human spirit has the remarkable capacity to not only survive but to thrive. Post-traumatic growth (PTG) is a phenomenon that highlights the positive psychological change that can occur as a result of struggling with challenging life circumstances. Rather than being defined by the wounds of the past, individuals can emerge from trauma with newfound strength, wisdom, and a deeper appreciation for life. In this blog article, we will explore the concept of post-traumatic growth, its key components, and how individuals can cultivate resilience in the face of adversity.

Understanding Vicarious Trauma: Recognizing and Addressing the Impact of Secondary Trauma

Vicarious trauma, also referred to as secondary traumatic stress, is the emotional and psychological strain that results from hearing about the firsthand trauma experiences of others. It occurs when individuals are exposed to the traumatic experiences of others, either directly through their work or indirectly through media and storytelling. Over time, continuous exposure to the suffering of others can lead to the development of symptoms similar to those experienced by individuals who have directly experienced trauma.