The Importance of Support Systems & Community in Trauma Recovery

The healing journey is rarely linear, but having a healthy support system can make the path more manageable and lighten the load.

My name is Terri, and for the past decade, I’ve been on a journey of rebuilding myself and navigating life’s challenges.

A Look Back

At 16, I was a self-conscious and deeply unhappy teenager, overwhelmed by fears of not fitting in and never feeling good enough. Then, life took a darker turn. Traumatic events pulled me into a relentless cycle of mental illness, suicide attempts, self-harm, and the enduring impact of others’ actions.

Change wasn’t just a desire—it was a necessity. Living each day in overwhelming unhappiness was heartbreaking. My formative years were consumed by isolation and toxic relationships. But then something shifted: becoming a mother became my turning point.

I made the choice to invest in myself—to not just exist but truly live. And I didn’t do it alone.

The Power of Support

Support networks and communities can take many forms, and I’ve leaned on each of them at different times—sometimes repeatedly. They’ve been essential to my recovery and growth.

  • Family & Friends: If you have a strong bond with loved ones, cherish it. Navigating sensitive subjects with them can be challenging, but their support is invaluable.
  • Professional Support: Never underestimate the power of speaking to someone. Sharing your thoughts repeatedly until you feel understood is crucial. Your voice matters. You matter.
  • Community Support: This has been my lifeline. Being part of the She Beasts community for the past three years has transformed my well-being. While the workouts are incredible, it’s the connection and sense of belonging that make the biggest difference. Engaging in activities and forming genuine friendships with like-minded individuals has been life-changing.

From 16 to 26

At 16, I believed I wasn’t deserving of life. Today, at 26, I’ve realized the immense worth and potential within myself—and within all of us.

It’s time to find your community, wherever that may be. And if you’re searching for a place to belong, you are more than welcome to join She Beasts. Let us be part of your journey to healing, growth, and rediscovery.

With strength and compassion,
Terri
She Beasts Team

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