If you want to heal from trauma, one of the most powerful places to begin is with your current relationships. Start by simply noticing how you feel—emotionally and physically—around the people in your life. Your body often knows the truth before your mind can catch up.

Many adult trauma survivors find themselves stuck in painful relationship patterns without realizing it. These aren’t always the obvious signs of harm like yelling or hitting. More often, it’s subtle dynamics: abandoning yourself during conversations, taking on others’ problems as your own, feeling guilt or shame when you can’t meet someone’s needs, or constantly giving without receiving in return.

So how do you know if this is happening to you?