Curiosity Calling

Self-harm is hard to talk about because the world makes it taboo. The shame can be suffocating. You feel like you have to hide it, fearing judgment or labels like “crazy”, dramatic” or “attention-seeking.”

But self-harm isn’t about seeking attention; it’s about seeking relief. When emotions become unbearable, it can feel like the only way to cope. It’s not logical or wanted. It just is. Even animals in distress engage in self-destructive behaviours, yet we show them compassion. Why can’t we do the same for people?

I know this pain firsthand. I struggled with self-injury since childhood, but healing is possible, even when it feels out of reach. It isn’t instant. It’s about understanding your pain, finding safer ways to cope, and learning self-kindness. Reaching out can feel pointless when judgment exists, but you still deserve kindness. And if asking for help feels impossible right now, just focus on holding on. A song, a pet, a quiet moment—anything that reminds you there’s more to life than suffering.

You don’t need to have all the answers today or be “okay” right now. But you do deserve to exist without shame. Even if the world doesn’t always make space for you, you belong here.

#SelfHarmAwareness #UnderstandingNotJudgment


IMAGE CREDIT: @worrywellbeing


DISCLAIMER: This post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding your physical or mental health.

3 weeks ago (edited) | [YT] | 1

Curiosity Calling

Dissociation is the brain’s defence mechanism when life gets overwhelming, especially after experiencing trauma. It’s a way for the brain to protect itself by distancing us from painful memories or emotions. For many of us with CPTSD, this might mean feeling detached or disconnected from our thoughts, feelings, or even our bodies. But the more trauma you endure without recovery, the more likely dissociation will take on a more complex form.

In simple terms, dissociation is a way our brain keeps us safe from things we can't handle at the moment. Over time, this can lead to a fragmented sense of self, with different parts of us holding onto memories or emotions, often creating confusion and stress.

EP (Emotional Parts) are the parts of us that hold onto painful memories, trauma, or emotions.
ANP (Apparently Normal Parts) are the parts that carry on with daily life and try to function normally, keeping things together even when it feels like everything is falling apart.

As trauma and dissociation get worse, we might experience more than one EP and ANP, leading to confusion about who we are or how we feel. This is what happens in cases like Complex PTSD or Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), where multiple "parts" of ourselves are managing different pieces of our lives or experiences.

Dissociation isn’t just a human experience—many animals display similar responses to trauma and danger. When faced with extreme stress or a life-threatening situation, animals may enter tonic immobility, also known as the "freeze" response. This is seen in prey animals like rabbits or deer when they become completely still to avoid detection. Even domestic pets, such as dogs who have experienced abuse, may "zone out" or become unresponsive under stress.

This shows that dissociation is an ancient survival mechanism wired into the nervous system to help living beings endure extreme distress. Just like animals, humans can become stuck in these survival states if trauma isn’t processed, but healing is possible through therapy, grounding techniques, and self-compassion.

Healing involves recognizing these parts and learning how to integrate them, so you feel whole again. It’s a slow process, but one that’s totally worth it!





IMAGE SOURCE: www.innerhealingpower.com | Nancy B. Sherrod, PhD, PLLC


DISCLAIMER: This post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding your physical or mental health.

1 month ago (edited) | [YT] | 1

Curiosity Calling

We’ve all heard it: “Don’t let feelings get in the way.” But here’s the truth—avoiding your emotions doesn’t make you stronger; it slowly breaks you down.

When you hold in emotions, your brain’s limbic system, the center of emotion and stress regulation, keeps your body in overdrive. Over time, this leads to chronic stress, inflammation, and even conditions like autoimmune diseases. Studies show that repressed emotions are also linked to anxiety, burnout, and strained relationships.

Emotions aren’t weaknesses; they’re signals. Bottling them up is like holding your breath—inevitable and intense when released. Real strength lies in acknowledging what you feel and releasing it in healthy ways, such as talking, journaling, mindful movement, somatic exercises, or even punching a pillow!

Stop suppressing and start expressing. That’s how you truly build strength and heal.




IMAGE CREDIT: @riazcounseling

4 months ago | [YT] | 1

Curiosity Calling

#Neurodivergence is a term that encompasses the many variations in how human brains function, process information, and interact with the world. It includes conditions like BPD, ADHD, CPTSD, OCD, and more. Instead of labeling these qualities as impairments, neurodivergence recognizes them as part of the natural diversity of human thought and experience.

Historically, society has focused on what neurodivergent individuals lack. Today, the conversation is shifting to a strengths-based perspective, recognizing the incredible contributions these individuals make. Whether it’s inventors, artists, or leaders, many transformative figures throughout history likely thought outside the "neurotypical" box.

Words shape how we think—using terminology like neurotypical and neurodivergent fosters a language of inclusivity, emphasizing that differences are natural rather than abnormal. Moving away from stigmatizing language helps create a more compassionate community.

Every brain is unique, and diversity is what makes humanity so extraordinary. In a world that often prioritizes one "normal" way of thinking or behaving, understanding neurodivergence challenges this narrow mindset, helping us see beyond the usual and embrace the beautiful spectrum of human experience. By supporting neurodivergent individuals and valuing their skills, we build a more empathetic and inclusive environment for everyone where every mind is valued and every person is empowered to thrive.



IMAGE SOURCE: @livedexperienceeducator

4 months ago (edited) | [YT] | 1

Curiosity Calling

On #WorldTraumaDay, let's acknowledge the profound and often invisible impact of trauma on millions of lives. Although it can be difficult to recognize, trauma shapes how we experience the world, manage stress, and connect with others.

Becoming trauma-informed involves approaching situations with empathy and understanding rather than making assumptions. By shifting our perspective from being judgemental to curious, we can learn that many behaviors are responses to past experiences of harm. Instead of asking, “What’s wrong with this person?” we ask, “What have they been through?” This approach fosters patience, compassion, and a helping hand for those who may be struggling.

We can contribute to ending the stigma and cultivating a healthier environment by encouraging a culture of acceptance where everyone has a safe space to feel heard, understood, and supported on their journey to healing. Together, we can build a more caring and trauma-aware society.



IMAGE SOURCE: @‌creative.clinical.psychologist

6 months ago | [YT] | 2

Curiosity Calling

Happy Sunday everyone!

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about how we talk about being “tired.” It’s such a common word we use, but I’ve come to realize that “tired” often masks something much deeper. Sometimes it’s easier to say we’re tired than to admit we’re overwhelmed or emotionally drained. But what if we took a step back and really listened to what that tiredness is trying to tell us?

For me, when I say I’m tired, it’s often because my mind has been running nonstop. Even if I’ve rested, the mental exhaustion lingers. I’m sure some of you can relate to that.

What if “tired” is our body’s way of asking for something beyond sleep? Maybe it’s asking for stillness, gentleness, or space to reset. It could be a call to check in and ask, “What do I really need right now?”

Take a moment and think about what your tiredness might be telling you. Is it asking you to slow down? To say no to something? To release guilt about needing rest? Or maybe it’s a call for more joy, more connection, or time with yourself.

In a world that celebrates being busy, we feel like we should always be doing more, pushing harder, and achieving the next thing. But when we ignore deeper exhaustion, we work against ourselves. It’s not easy, and I’m still learning this too, but it’s okay to slow down. You don’t have to be at full speed all the time.

I hope this post encourages you to be gentle with yourself. You don’t have to have it all figured out. It’s okay to rest. It’s okay to let go. And it’s more than okay to prioritize your well-being. Let’s start seeing “tired” as a sign to slow down and nurture ourselves.

And maybe this Sunday is the perfect opportunity to do just that. Take the day to unwind, relax, and be kind to yourself. Whether that means taking a long walk, doing something creative, or simply doing nothing at all—honor what your body and mind are asking for.

We can only give our best when we feel our best, and that sometimes means recognizing when we need to pause. It’s not a weakness; it’s strength. So let’s be kinder to ourselves and honest about what we need, even if the world tells us to keep going.

So what is your tiredness telling you? Let’s connect and navigate this together.


IMAGE CREDIT: @rebeccamealerlmft

6 months ago (edited) | [YT] | 2