The mother wound refers to the emotional and psychological scars left by an unfilled, neglectful, or challenging maternal relationship. It can manifest as feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, feelings of shame and guilt, challenges with decision-making, fear of expressing yourself, and difficulty meeting your own needs.

Common forms of childhood trauma include:

• Abuse: Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse can cause deep harm to a child, impacting their self-worth and sense of trust into adulthood.

• Neglect: When a child’s basic needs like food, shelter, emotional support, or medical care are not met.

• Loss or Separation: Experiencing the death of a caregiver, or being separated from parents due to divorce, foster care, or abandonment, can create feelings of abandonment and insecurity.

• Witnessing Violence: Exposure to domestic violence, bullying, or violent events can lead to anxiety, fear, or a distorted sense of the world as unsafe.

• Parentification: Occurs when a child is forced to take on adult responsibilities such as caring for siblings or providing emotional support to a parent. It can create a role reversal where the child feels more like the “parent” than the “child” which can lead to feelings of guilt, anxiety, and a loss of childhood.

Anxiety is a natural response to stress but when it becomes overwhelming, and chronic it can interfere with daily life and well-being.

Common signs of anxiety:

• Constant or excessive worry

• Restlessness or feeling on edge

• Difficulty concentrating or focusing

• Irritability or trouble sleeping

• Physical symptoms such as a racing heart, shortness of breath, or dizziness

Life transitions are significant changes or shifts in a person’s life that can bring a mix of emotions, uncertainty, and challenges. During times of transition, it’s normal to feel uncertain, anxious, or even lost.

Common life transitions:

• Marriage, divorce, or relationship changes

• Moving to a new city or country

• Health challenges

• Bereavement or the loss of a loved one