If you’ve ever been called a “strong, independent woman” (or man!) and felt a quiet exhaustion behind the compliment, this episode will speak to you.

In this week’s episode, I’m unpacking something many of us carry without realising it — hyper-independence. That deep belief that you have to do everything on your own — not because you want to, but because somewhere along the way, you learned that asking for help wasn’t safe or worthwhile.

We’ll explore where this pattern comes from, how it quietly shapes our relationships and sense of belonging, and most importantly, how trauma therapy — especially EMDR — can help soften those edges. Because healing doesn’t just mean surviving alone. It’s about learning to trust, to connect, and to let others in again.

If you’ve ever felt lonely in your strength, this one’s for you.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

Independence can be healthy — until it starts to isolate you.

Hyper-independence is often a trauma response, not a personality trait.

EMDR therapy helps uncover and heal the old wounds that created the need to “do it all alone.”

True strength isn’t about avoiding help — it’s about allowing it.

Letting others in can be one of the most healing experiences of all.

Key Highlights:

What hyper-independence really is — and how it hides behind “strength”

The roots of self-reliance in childhood trauma, neglect, or betrayal

How hyper-independence shows up in adulthood: work, relationships, and loneliness

Why accepting help can feel uncomfortable — and what that reveals

How EMDR therapy can release the pain driving over-independence, helping you open up to trust and connection again

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Join Dr. Caroline Lloyd as she unpacks trauma, demystifies PTSD, and shares how EMDR can support real, lasting healing.