Left Side -“It Didn’t Really Happen"

This stage reflects denial or avoidance of the traumatic event where we may not fully acknowledge or process what has happened. The clouds represent coping mechanisms that often develop in response to trauma. These behaviours and habits are attempts to numb or avoid the pain of unprocessed traumatic experiences. The clouds include:

• Sex: Often used as a way to distract from emotional pain or regain a sense of control.
• Alcohol: A common means to numb feelings and avoid confronting traumatic memories.
• Drugs: Substance use can help escape or dull the intense emotions linked to trauma.
• Self-Harm: A physical manifestation of inner pain and an attempt to cope with overwhelming emotions.
• Work: Overworking can become an avoidance technique to prevent sitting with difficult emotions.
• Eating Disorders: A way to control or punish the body, sometimes linked to distorted feelings about oneself resulting from trauma.

Middle Section - “It Really Happened” 

Here, the transition from “It Didn’t Really Happen” to “It Really Happened” occurs. This is a crucial turning point where we begin to confront the trauma and accept that it did occur.

This is often accompanied with feelings of anger, pain, guilt and shame.

Right Side - "It really happened to me"

As we move to the right side of the slide, the hearts symbolize hope, healing, and clarity. They include

• Voice: Finding your voice and expressing what happened. This can involve therapy, sharing your story, or acknowledging your trauma for the first time.
• Heal: The process of healing through self-compassion, therapy, and self-awareness.
• New Self: The emergence of a self that is no longer defined by trauma but by growth and transformation.
• Hope: The belief that things can improve, that healing is possible, and that the future holds potential beyond the trauma.