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July 9, 2023

Dear Diary,

I found you today, tucked away in an old box. Reading my words from years ago broke something inside me—not with sadness, but with gratitude. Little me never gave up, even when the world felt so heavy.

I want to tell you—we made it. It wasn’t easy. Therapy helped. Friends helped. But most of all, I helped me. The pain was never my fault, and now, the yelling and fear are gone. In their place, there’s peace.

Thank you for being my friend when I had no one. Thank you for holding my secrets. And thank you for reminding me how far I’ve come.

We’re okay now.

With love,

Me

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Childhood Viewpoint

Eight-year-old Maria clutches her teddy bear tightly as she hides in the corner of her bedroom. The yelling from the other room grows louder, and she presses her hands over her ears to block out the sound. Tears stream down her cheeks, and her chest feels heavy, like it's hard to breathe.

Maria doesn't understand why her parents are always fighting or why she feels scared so often. She wishes someone could tell her that it's not her fault, but the thought never comes. Instead, she whispers to her teddy, "Maybe if I'm really quiet, everything will get better."

That night, she falls asleep crying, her dreams filled with the same chaos that surrounds her when she's awake.

Adulthood Viewpoint

Maria, now 28, sits in her car outside of work, gripping the steering wheel tightly. Her chest feels heavy again, and her breathing is quick and shallow.

The memories of her childhood echo in her mind-the yelling, the fear, the sadness she carried for years.

The panic attacks started when she was 19, but back then, she didn't know what they were. She thought it was just stress from school or work. Now, as an adult, she realizes that the trauma she experienced as a child never truly went away. It stayed with her, creeping into her relationships and making her feel like she was always on edge.

Maria has tried therapy and journaling, and she's learning to cope. It's not easy. Some days, she feels like the scared little girl with her teddy bear all over again.

But other days, she reminds herself that healing is a process-and that it's okay to ask for help.

"I'm doing this for her," Maria whispers, thinking of her younger self. "She deserved better-and so do I."

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This cartoon was created to symbolize the journey of healing from the past trauma. The bandaged hearts represent the steps involved in the healing process, while the hands convey the message that seeking help is a courageous and supportive act, free of shame.

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Never Too Late

In my youth, I shed countless tears,

Voices unheard, fears fed by fears.

No hand to guide, no one to see, the storm that raged inside of me.

Years passed by; I wore a mask, Hiding my pain, a heavy task.

But time revealed what I could do

-

The strength to heal began to brew.

Now as an adult, I take my stand, Mending scars with my own hand.

Wiping tears, I find my way, Turning darkness into day.

I have found my purpose, clear and true:

To heal the child that lives in you.

For though the past may leave its mark,

It is never too late to spark a fresh start.

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Long term impact of childhood trauma on adulthood experiences

A journalistic talk about how childhood trauma may lead to later physical and mental health issues in life.

·         Context

o   What can cause a child to go through trauma at a young age- The loss of a loved one, extreme poverty, abuse, death or serious diseases in the family, and psychological abuse.

o   People who go through childhood trauma are at higher risk of – Coronary illness, Type 2 diabetes, Cancer, being overweight, or having an addiction.

o   Dealing with childhood trauma may cause- Anxiety, a failure to trust, self- esteem problems, modifications to appetite, negative actions against oneself, depression and thoughts of suicide, or emergence of new concerns.

o   The effects of childhood trauma can cause issues in adulthood relationships- Difficulties in social or romantic relationships, low academic achievements, and unsatisfactory work output

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What Are the Long-Term Effects of Childhood Trauma?

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There are many adverse long-term effects of childhood trauma. Understanding the long-term impacts can help you turn things around.

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An Introduction to Coping with Childhood Trauma, 2nd Edition

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A clinical psychologist, Helen offers compassionate guidance for those who are struggling to come to terms with their past. This edition builds upon the foundation of her earlier work, incorporating the latest psychological research and therapeutic practices to empower readers on their journey toward healing.

Context

o   Childhood Trauama- Childhood trauma is a distressing or painful experience that can have lasting mental and physical effects on a child. It can occur when a child is overwhelmed by a dangerous or violent event that threatens their life or bodily integrity.

o   How is childhood trauma caused- There is four caterers that generate childhood trauma which is sexual abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse/bullying, and neglect.

o   What problems might childhood trauma cause- Many of her clients suffered from post- traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

o   Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT)- CBT can help address the common issues faced by survivors

Developing Coping
Mechanisms: Introducing practical exercises to manage distressing emotions and reduce the impact of traumatic memories. She also

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Kennerley, Helen. Coping with Childhood Trauma. 2nd ed., Robinson, 2020.

Miller, Seth J. "Six Ways to Overcome Childhood Trauma and Stop Self-Sabotage." Psychology, 1 July 2017.

Fielding, Chloe. "Overcoming Childhood Trauma." Psychology, 14 Sept. 2020.

Integrative Life Center. "What Are the Long-Term Effects of Childhood Trauma?" Integrative Life Center, December 2024

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This visual map beautifully illustrates the empowering message that past trauma does not define who you are or your future. Key aspects such as your worth, success, potential, identity, choices, and

happiness are not determined by the pain or hardships you've experienced. Instead, these elements are shaped by healing, growth, and the choices you make moving forward. The map serves as a reminder that your journey is your own and that your past does not have the power to limit your future.

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Blue Pink Cute Illustration Affirmation Poster

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New Beginnings

Before this class, I had never heard of the term “Multi-Genre,” but it quickly became one of my favorite writing styles. I appreciated the opportunity to incorporate creativity into my final project, which was a refreshing change from the typical bookwork assignments I had in past classes. This project allowed me to express myself in a unique and meaningful way.

Learned Something New About Myself

This topic resonated deeply with me because I, too, have experienced childhood trauma and struggled to navigate life as a result. Working on this project gave me the chance to reflect on my healing journey. Over time, I’ve learned to overcome my challenges and even started a business to help other women begin their self-love journeys through body jewelry. This project reminded me how much I’ve grown and how I can use my experiences to inspire others.

Struggles

The most challenging part of this project was finding scholarly research on my topic. While the subject of childhood trauma is widely discussed, narrowing down credible and specific sources for my research took more effort than I anticipated.

Overall, this project was a transformative experience that allowed me to reflect, learn, and share an important message.

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I am thrilled to present my multi-genre research project on the personal narrative. My topic focuses on addressing childhood trauma before reaching adulthood. This topic resonates deeply with me because I know many people in my community who experienced childhood trauma or carry generational trauma within their families. Unfortunately, many individuals in my community and family have not dealt with their childhood trauma, leading to challenges in adulthood where they struggle to cope effectively.

Addressing childhood trauma before adulthood is crucial because unresolved trauma can significantly impact various aspects of life later on. It can strain relationships with significands others, children, and even disrupt one's overall lifestyle. Entering adulthood without healing from past trauma can be emotionally draining, making it difficult to navigate life as an adult.

Fortunately, there are effective ways to heal and process trauma, allowing individuals to approach adulthood with clarity and resilience. Taking these steps is essential to building a healthier and more fulfilling life.

Sincerely,

The Author