Let’s Talk About Dissociation and Finding Yourself Again After Trauma

Let’s Talk About Dissociation and Finding Yourself Again After Trauma

Let’s talk about dissociating—losing your sense of self after trauma—and what healing looks like. Dissociation is a real, medical condition that affects how your brain functions, so getting professional help is essential. Coaches like me aren’t medical providers, but we support the strategy side of healing. When you’re running a business while managing trauma, it’s powerful to have someone remind you to address the medical side and help you integrate that care into your life and goals.

When you’ve experienced trauma, it can be hard to care for yourself. Numbing, freezing, and dissociating can make even simple things feel overwhelming. That’s why support is vital—someone who helps you make sure you’re getting the right professional help while holding compassionate space for your journey as an entrepreneur and human being.

Dissociation essentially means losing your sense of who you are. It’s scary—because while growth and evolution are natural, dissociation is a full disconnect from your identity. But here’s what’s hopeful: it’s treatable. Your authentic self still exists underneath the trauma. When healing begins, that true self naturally starts to re-emerge.

I’ve always loved the image of Michelangelo sculpting—how he saw the figure already inside the marble, simply unveiling it over time. That’s what healing from trauma is like. Your true self isn’t gone—it’s simply waiting to be uncovered as you process, release, and grow.

For me, the concept of “coping selves” used to sting. I’d think, “I’m not fake—this is just how I survive.” And that’s valid. Coping selves protect us, helping us function when emotions are too overwhelming. Maybe you recognize that version of yourself—the one that shows up at work, manages daily life, and hides the pain. That’s not wrong. It’s adaptive. At some point, you’ll be ready to release parts that no longer serve you, and that’s a beautiful evolution.

Healing takes time and constant support—from professionals, loved ones, community, and your own self-compassion. PTSD, trauma, dissociation—they’re a lot to handle. But remember, your authentic self will unveil itself naturally through the healing process.

You might still catch yourself in coping patterns like overeating, overworking, or shutting down emotionally. Instead of judging those behaviors, try thanking the part of you that used them to survive. It stepped in when things were too hard—and now it’s just time to gently release or rework those habits.

That’s what trauma recovery really is: learning to move through your experiences instead of circling around them. Processing the stored stress, cortisol, and adrenaline in your body helps create safety again—so you can feel grounded, connected, and whole.

Your healing brings your true self back online. Stay with it, stay compassionate, and keep reaching for the support you need. You’ll feel yourself re-emerge, more authentic and alive than before.

👑 Lots of love, until next time!

Gina