When asked, “What happened to you?” we often discover that the person experienced trauma during their developmental years. Those who have faced ‘developmental adversity’ often suffer from chronic regulation disorders, meaning they are typically on edge and anxious. Sometimes, they feel as though they are about to jump out of their skin, or as Russell Brand vividly describes, they experience an inner storm.

Everyone has big or small traumas. These inner storms are buried deep in old memories and occasionally surge up, causing immense pain and distress. However, for some people, this painful trauma becomes an honorable crown. It pushes them beyond chronic emotional regulation disorders and transforms them into great individuals like Oprah Winfrey.

trauma, resilience, growth