I wish more people understood what it’s like to be a trauma survivor.

Not just the textbook definition, but the moment-to-moment experience.

The way trauma can turn ordinary life into a psychological minefield, or what I call a mind field.

What does PTSD actually feel like, day to day?

It can mean always being alert, never relaxing.

Not on Sundays. Not at night. Not with people. Not alone.

Many of my patients struggle with sleep. Imagine not sleeping through the night for decades.

They stay busy to avoid what’s underneath, immersing themselves in work, caregiving, relationships, or substances.