Question

I feel sick all the time after experiencing trauma. I'm scared of everyone and can't feel safe, even with my friends. Nowhere feels safe, nothing feels secure, and I'm exhausted. I don't know how to navigate this pain that won't go away. I don't know who to ask for help or what I would even say. I just wish it all would leave me alone, but it never does. Could you tell me that it's going to be okay and that I'm safe?

Answer

I hear how much pain and exhaustion you are feeling right now. While I can't personally guarantee your safety, I do want to assure you that healing is possible. Hang on to hope. The constant fear and sickness you're describing are common responses to trauma - you're not alone in feeling this way, and you're not wrong for having these reactions.

What you're going through is incredibly difficult and overwhelming. It takes real strength to put these feelings into words and reach out, even if you're unsure what to say or who to turn to. That's actually a really important first step.

There are people specially trained to help with exactly what you're experiencing - trauma-informed therapists and counselors who can help you process these feelings and gradually rebuild your sense of safety. I want to provide these resources below for you to use when you are ready.

- Call or text 988 to reach the Crisis Lifeline 24/7
- Contact RAINN if your trauma was related to sexual harm
- Use Psychology Today's therapist finder to look for trauma specialists in your area

You don't have to figure this out alone. Recovery from trauma takes time, and it's okay to not be okay right now. But with support and care, many people do find their way to feeling safer and more stable again. Thank you so much for trusting us with this. You matter and you are important.