Burnt Out from Caring Too Much – Compassion Fatigue

Categories
Exploring Self, Shadow 101

Emily was a devoted social worker who had spent years helping families navigate difficult times. Every day, she listened empathetically to stories of hardship and trauma, offering support wherever she could. Over time, the weight of these stories began to take a toll on her spirit. She noticed she was becoming emotionally exhausted, less patient,… continue reading.

When taking small steps feels like walking up a mountain

Categories
Coping Skills, Shadow 101

John couldn’t get himself out of bed. He stared at the wall; it was 6 AM, and he had to get up and get to work, but my god, could he not get himself up? He thought of everything he had to do before he even got out the door, the traffic to work, and… continue reading.

6 Ways to Give Yourself Permission Not To Celebrate

Categories
Coping Skills, Shadow 101

The holiday season is upon us again, and for many people, it is filled with dread and can be incredibly challenging. Societal and familial expectations can and do clash often with personal emotions and boundaries, making an already difficult time more difficult, especially when going no-contact with family and friends. That’s ok. Give yourself permission… continue reading.

We Become Angry to Stop Feeling Helpless and Vulnerable

Categories
Coping Skills, Emotions, Shadow 101

Alice slammed the cupboard door so hard the dishes rattled, her face flushed with frustration. Her teenage son, Ethan, had just announced he was failing math, and no amount of her nagging seemed to make him care. “How could you be so irresponsible?” she yelled, her voice sharp enough to cut through the silence that… continue reading.

Are We Truly Connected or Just Bonded Over Negative Experiences?

Categories
Coping Skills, Shadow 101

Life often brings us into relationships where we feel an intense connection with someone, romantically, platonically or familial. However, we may not always tell if this is a connection that is built on a healthy foundation, or a trauma dump of negative experiences.  Here is a quick conversation between Jackson and Alex who are trying… continue reading.

Exploring Horizontal and Vertical Morality in Ethical Living

Categories
Coping Skills, Shadow 101

In a quiet village nestled between mountains, an old monk and a young farmer often crossed paths. The monk spent his days in prayer, seeking to align his soul with the divine, while the farmer toiled in the fields, ensuring his neighbors never went hungry. One evening, they sat together by the river, and the… continue reading.

Trauma, Identity Loss, and Walk-in Spirits

Categories
Coping Skills, Shadow 101

After her accident, Lydia felt like she was living in someone else’s body. The lively, ambitious person she once knew was gone, replaced by someone who was cautious and quiet. She’d once been the life of every gathering, but now, she felt uneasy even in the company of her closest friends. Everyday tasks, like deciding… continue reading.

There’s No Future Plan – Because You Didn’t Expect to Be Here For It

Categories
Coping Skills, Shadow 101

“I never really thought I’d be here for this”. Nathan did not expect to live past 25. It was not like he intentionally wanted to die, but he just felt there was an unshakeable feeling that his life would end too soon. He survived an abusive childhood where there was emotional and psychological abuse, and… continue reading.