Finding Your Strength: What to Do When You Feel Like a Burden

Dear Warrior,

If you’re reading this, it’s likely you’ve had moments where you’ve felt like a burden to those you care about, especially when dealing with the heavy weight of trauma and depression. Perhaps you’ve been met with dismissive comments like “just get over it” or felt guilty for sharing your pain. I want you to know that your feelings are valid, and you are not alone in this struggle.

It’s Not Your Fault

First and foremost, it’s important to remember that your trauma and the emotions that come with it are not your fault. Trauma is a profound experience that affects the mind, body, and spirit, often leaving deep emotional scars that take time and care to heal. You are not weak or broken; you are a survivor navigating a difficult path.

Understand the Impact of Trauma

When we share our trauma with others, it can sometimes be overwhelming for them to understand or provide the support we need. This doesn’t mean you are a burden or that you should silence your feelings. Trauma changes how we perceive and interact with the world, and it’s okay to need time and support to heal. It’s also okay if others struggle to understand; it doesn’t diminish the validity of your experience.

Set Healthy Boundaries

To protect both your well-being and your relationships, consider setting boundaries around how and when you share your trauma. It can be helpful to identify trusted individuals who are willing and able to support you. This might mean finding a supportive friend, family member, or a professional who can offer the understanding and space you need. Communicate your needs clearly, and remember that it’s okay to ask for support in ways that feel safe and constructive for you.

Find Professional Support

Sometimes, the people closest to us may not have the tools or understanding to help us in the way we need. Seeking professional support from a therapist or counselor who specializes in trauma can provide you with a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your feelings and experiences. They can offer guidance, coping strategies, and validation that your friends and family might not be equipped to provide.

Practice Self-Compassion

When you feel like a burden, it’s crucial to practice self-compassion. Remind yourself that it’s okay to feel how you feel and that you deserve kindness and understanding, especially from yourself. Engage in self-care activities that make you feel nurtured and valued. This could be as simple as taking a warm bath, going for a walk in nature, or journaling about your experiences and feelings.

Join a Support Group

Connecting with others who have experienced similar challenges can be incredibly healing. Consider joining a support group for trauma survivors where you can share your story and hear from others who understand what you’re going through. This can provide a sense of community and validation, helping you realize that you are not alone in your struggles.

Focus on Small Wins

Healing from trauma is a journey with ups and downs. Focus on the small wins, like getting out of bed, completing a task, or even just taking a few minutes to breathe deeply and center yourself. Celebrate these moments as steps forward on your path to healing, no matter how small they may seem.

Communicate Your Needs

Sometimes, friends and family may not know how to help or may unintentionally say things that hurt. It can be helpful to communicate your needs and educate them about your experiences. Let them know how they can support you, whether it’s just listening without judgment, helping with day-to-day tasks, or simply being there when you need company.

Remember Your Worth

Above all, remember that you are worthy of love, support, and understanding. Your trauma does not define you, and your need for help does not make you a burden. You are strong, resilient, and deserving of a future filled with hope and healing.

You Are Not Alone

It’s okay to need help. It’s okay to not have all the answers. And it’s okay to lean on others as you navigate your journey to healing. Surround yourself with people who uplift you, seek out resources that support your growth, and always remember that you are not a burden—you are a brave survivor moving towards a brighter, more peaceful future.

With love and strength,
The Wellness Waypoint Team