How to Explain Complex Trauma to Your Partner

“I want to tell him so much, but I just can’t.” A listener sent me that, and so many of you asked for the same thing: an episode you could share with your partner, your best friend, the person you love, to help explain what living with complex trauma is actually like when the words won’t come. So this one’s built to be shared. Listen on your own first, then send it to your person, or play it together. We get into what’s happening in the body during emotional flashbacks, shutdown, fawning, big feelings that go from zero to a hundred, and why closeness can feel both wanted and scary. Then we talk about how to actually start the conversation, using words that describe what your body does, not your whole story. If you grew up with abuse, emotional neglect, or both, I hope this helps you feel a little more understood, and helps the people who love you understand you too. This episode is sponsored by Cozy Earth! Use code RECLAIM at cozyearth.com for 35% off home and sleepwear. Their biggest sale of the year ends December 3. Resources National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233, or text START to 88788 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: call or text 988 (US) Looking for a trauma therapist in Pennsylvania? Reclaim Therapy: reclaimtherapy.org Thanks for listening to The Complex Trauma Podcast! Be sure to follow, share and give us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Follow on Instagram: @sarahherstichlcsw Follow on TikTok: @sarahherstichlcsw Learn more about EMDR & trauma therapy in Pennsylvania with Reclaim Therapy This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or nutritional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Remember, I'm a therapist, but I'm not your therapist. Nothing in this podcast is meant to replace actual therapy or treatment. If you're in crisis or things feel really unsafe right now, please reach out to someone. You can call 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, text them, or head to your nearest ER. The views expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not represent the opinions of any organizations or institutions. Reliance on any information provided by this podcast is solely at your own risk.