There are many reasons why some of us are hard on ourselves – one being the residue of an abuser’s narrative.

I still hear mine, it’s an echo, full of maligning, historic words – which, whilst I can’t entirely switch off, I have learned to override.

It takes daily management; it’s a bit like trying to tether a determined and vicious entity. It is akin to suffering from tinnitus.

I achieve and practice this through positive affirmations, meditation, and mindfulness, which are all underpinned by breathing exercises.

Of course, we trauma survivors have poor coping strategies. Our brains have been interrupted during early development. It is not our fault, and nor can we hope to change our past experiences.

It is a waste of our energy when we ruminate.

But, what we can do is familiarise ourselves with the symptoms of trauma. For example, I’ve recently found out that there is a link between varying cortisol levels and people with PTSD.

Some of the physical symptoms include headaches and gastro problems. We might suffer from acidic stomach complaints or unexplained general pain.

We have to remind ourselves that we are lucky to still be alive.

We may not be good at taking compliments. We might find that we have difficulties in being understood. Yet, by being more consciously aware of the physical and physiological effects of trauma, unwittingly, we learn how to understand the workings of our minds. We can aspire to be the brave wolf, who assesses their territory from the safety of the mountain top.

Time spent researching the fuller details of trauma is an investment for all of you who endure the lasting effects of the illness.

Remember that you deserve to regain control of your mind.

You have endured enough without punishing yourselves further by being hard on yourselves!