Understanding Intergenerational Trauma

In this episode of W Ap Koute M M Ap Koute W, we explore how unprocessed trauma doesn’t simply disappear it transforms into patterns, beliefs, emotional reactions, and ways of surviving that pass from one generation to the next.

We talk about how trauma shapes:

* our sense of safety

* the way we love

* the stories we tell ourselves

* and how we navigate the world

And why these patterns often continue not because our families were “bad”, but because they never had the safety or support to heal.

My Grandmother’s Story: Pain, Resilience, and Legacy

I share the story of my grandmother, a woman who survived abandonment, poverty, abuse, and life as a restavèk, yet rebuilt her life through resilience, faith, and community.

Her story shows both the beauty and the wounds woven into our family history:

* the strength that kept us going

* the trauma that shaped our beliefs

* the patterns that repeated through generations

* and the emotional gaps that survival-mode parenting leaves behind

How Trauma Moves Through Generations

We explore how trauma gets passed down through:

* silence and emotional distance

* fear-based beliefs

* survival mode

* mistrust

* overprotection or under-nurturing

* repeated relationship patterns

Intergenerational trauma doesn’t only come from parents it also comes from grandparents, aunts, uncles, and anyone who shaped our emotional landscape.

Breaking Cycles With Awareness and Compassion

Healing doesn’t mean blaming the generations before us. It means finally having the safety they never had. It means choosing softness over silence. It means rewriting the patterns with intention.

We talk about:

* healing your inner child

* noticing emotional patterns

* redefining love and safety

* creating healthy families even if you didn’t grow up with one

* choosing connection over survival

You have the power to change the direction of your family’s story starting now.

Reflection & Journaling Prompt

What patterns do you notice in your family? Where do they come from? And what cycle are you choosing to end?

Get full access to Aurelie Zephir LMFT at aureliezephir.substack.com/subscribe