‘Life feels more spacious’: How Brittany found healing from the invisible scars of trauma
Childhood trauma often leaves emotional scars that have long-term effects on a person’s mental health.
In a recent episode of our Rise Above podcast, Brittany shares how she battled depression and anxiety as a result of her early experiences.
“I was moving through life in survival mode without even realizing it,” Brittany shares. “On the outside, I looked functional. I was working, showing up for people, and doing what needed to be done.”
But on the inside, she felt “really heavy and stuck,” weighed down by years of unprocessed trauma. Caught in what she calls an unhealthy loop, she struggled to see a way forward.
Eventually, Brittany discovered Rogers and received treatment at the Appleton outpatient clinic.
“It was very welcoming,” she says. “Everyone seemed free to be whatever it was they were dealing with.”
During treatment, she learned skills she still uses today.
“When I start to feel anxiety rise up, I’ll wash my hands under cold water and it resets me,” she says.
Facing everything she avoided for many years was one of the hardest parts of treatment. One of the most challenging was writing a self-compassion letter.
“Rogers gave me the space and time to sit with myself until I was able to do it,” she says. “It was the most rewarding part of treatment. The discomfort was growth.”
Today, that self-compassion continues to guide her journey of healing.
“It’s about giving yourself permission to come home to who you’ve always been,” she says. “Life feels more spacious.”
Appleton team members say helping people improve their mental health is a privilege.
“I feel grateful every day to be able to help patients in the Trauma Recovery program on their path toward improving their overall mental health,” says Kim Nokes-Stenz, RN. “When patients come to Rogers seeking help, they have made the decision to put themselves first, which is a wonderful thing. The first step in seeking help is a life-changing decision that gains momentum throughout treatment. Patients choosing to be vulnerable and sharing their innermost self while working toward the goal of healing is powerful to witness. I’ve seen countless patients gain the skills, self-compassion, and confidence to navigate life successfully after completing treatment at Rogers. One thing I’ve learned in my work is that patients want to be seen, heard, and understood. They deserve that and I work diligently to provide this understanding to every person that I take care of.”
“It is both an honor and a privilege to walk alongside individuals on their journey toward wellness and recovery,” says Nicole Terrien, clinical supervisor, MS, LPC, NCC, ICS. “They are more than patients — they are survivors. Each one has shown me what it truly means to persevere, even when the world feels dark. Because of the courage and vulnerability they bring to their stories, I am a stronger clinician, a more attentive listener, and a more compassionate teacher and coach. I want others to know that trauma may shape part of your story, but it does not define your future. Brighter days lie ahead, even if you can’t see them yet.”
To hear more of Brittany’s story, click here: Rise Above: a Podcast From Rogers Behavioral Health | From Childhood Trauma, Anxiety and Depression to Hope and Healing
