People often believe that something in their past makes them a uniquely “bad” person. It could be a choice they have made or even something inflicted on them by another person. You may be a person who has something in your past that makes you feel this way. You may be thinking…What if I tell another person and they judge me, dismiss me, or just don’t understand the hurt behind my story? But on the other side of this…What if there are people who have been through something close to what I’ve been through? What if there is someone who feels like I do?

There is likely nothing traumatic in your past that someone else has not experienced. This is not to take away from whatever you have been through or to minimize it, but rather to help you feel that “You are normal” and someone else understands. These “secrets” do not define who you are as a person, and you can move through and share experiences in your life in a safe setting.

How do you know if you may be ready to share your experience with someone else?

-It keeps coming up in your thoughts and it feels unresolved.

-You have anxiety or sadness and you aren’t sure what it is causing it.

-You have a feeling of uncertainty but you don’t really know why.

Maybe it’s time to share your story. If this feels right to you, then do some research and find a therapist in your area and make an appointment. A trained, licensed counselor will certainly help you by either offering their services, or helping you find someone who feels like a good fit for you.

Gayla Partin, LISW-CP. 12-9-2017.