"孩子不会因为受伤而受到创伤; 孩子会因为独自面对伤痛而受到创伤。"

Kids don’t end up traumatized just because something bad happens to them. It’s the feeling of being alone in their pain that really messes them up. Imagine you’re a kid who falls off their bike and scrapes their knee. Sure, it hurts, but if there’s someone there to hold you, to tell you it’s going to be okay, to wipe away your tears, that pain feels manageable. Now picture the same scenario, but you’re alone. There’s no one to comfort you, no one to tell you it’s going to be alright. That’s when the hurt sinks deeper—it’s not just about the physical pain anymore; it’s the emotional isolation that leaves a mark.

This idea taps into a fundamental aspect of human nature. We’re social creatures. From the moment we’re born, we seek connection and comfort in others. It’s wired into us—baby cries, parent comes running. That need for connection doesn’t go away as we grow. When we face pain or trauma, having someone to lean on can make all the difference in the world. Consider historical events or personal stories. Think of war zones where children are orphaned and left to fend for themselves. The trauma they carry isn’t just from the violence; it’s from the sheer loneliness of facing that horror without a comforting hand to hold.

Take a real-life example—one of the most vivid I’ve come across. There’s this program called “Camp HOPE America” for children exposed to domestic violence. They run these camps where kids can come together, share their stories, and find support. One child, let’s call her Sam, came in completely withdrawn. She’d seen things no child should see and had been dealing with it all on her own. But at camp, she met others like her. They talked, they cried, they supported each other. By the end of the camp, Sam was a different person. It wasn’t just the activities or the counselors—it was the shared experience, the realization that she wasn’t alone in her pain. That’s powerful stuff.

So how can we apply this wisdom in our own lives? Simple: Be there. Be present. When someone around you is hurting, don’t just assume they’ll get over it or that it’s not a big deal. Show up. Listen. Sometimes, you don’t even need to say anything—just being there can be enough. If you’re a parent, don’t shy away from your child's pain. Embrace it with them. Let them know they’re not alone.

Imagine a scenario—your friend just lost their job. It’s a tough spot, right? Instead of the usual “You’ll find something else” or “Everything happens for a reason,” try this: “I’m here for you. Let’s talk about how you’re feeling.” Maybe even share a meal or a cup of coffee. The key is making sure they don’t feel isolated in their struggle.

Think about your own life too. When you’ve faced tough times, wasn’t it always easier when someone was there for you? Remember that feeling and aim to give that same comfort and companionship to others. Trauma is a heavy load, but it’s lighter when carried together.