In this episode, I’m joined by Christine Cissy White of Heal Write Now. Cissy joins me to share her story of how she was affected by developmental trauma and neglect and the roles that writing and peer support have played in her healing journey.
Click the play button below to check it out!
The Details
Traumatic experience:
Cissy grew up suffering from developmental trauma and neglect. There was abuse, addiction, and physical violence in her family, and her father wasn't present in her life.
Effects of the traumatic experience:
As a result of the trauma, Cissy felt like she didn't know how to be human. She was diagnosed with PTSD in early twenties. She had trouble connecting to her feelings and her own body and her own needs. She also struggled with anxiety to the point that it was interfering with her life.
Overcoming the traumatic experience:
Cissy started with talk therapy, but she always relied on reading and writing as a way to cope with what she was going through. As she got older, she attended writing groups which were very healing for her as well. Having pets helped her while she was growing up, and yoga helped her feel more connected to her body.
What Cissy does today: Cissy is a mom, activist, and writer.
Final Question:
Given what you know now, if you could go back to when you were going through the tough times and give yourself one piece of advice, what would it be?
Cissy's Answer: Have more compassion for how scrappy you have to be to survive and try to have more fun.
Links Mentioned
HealWriteNow.com - Cissy's website where you connect with her
Heal Write Now Center - Where you can learn more about Cissy's in-person writing classes
ACEsTooHigh.com - Where you can find more information about the Adverse Childhood Experiences Study
Parenting with ACEs Group - Cissy's group for parents on the ACEs Connection Network
LauraDavis.net - Where you can find writing prompts to help you in your healing journey
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