Unchained: How to Break the Bondage of Trauma and Embrace Healing

Trauma can leave lasting imprints on your mind, body, and spirit. Whether it stems from abusive relationships, childhood wounds, or life-altering events, it can feel impossible to break free from the chains that keep you bound to the past. But through education, support, and faith, healing is possible. You don’t have to stay stuck. There are practical steps to help you break free from trauma based on the truth found in God’s Word.

1. Educate Yourself: Understanding Trauma Bonding

One of the most challenging aspects of breaking free from trauma is understanding how deep its roots run. Trauma bonding often forms when a person is trapped in an abusive relationship, cycling between moments of kindness and abuse. This emotional roller coaster can create a powerful bond that is difficult to break.

One woman that I helped was Sarah. She was married twice. Both marriages were riddled with emotional and physical abuse. She endured long periods of manipulation and control. She would convince herself that things were improving, only to be pulled back into the same cycle of hurt. Sarah later learned about trauma bonding and recognized that her attachment to her abusers was not based on love but on fear and emotional dependency.

This realization was a turning point for Sarah, and she clung to the verse in Romans 12:2: "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." Educating herself about trauma bonding helped renew her mind and set her on the path to healing.

2. Seek Support: You Are Not Alone

Healing doesn’t happen in isolation. You need others to walk this journey with you. Reach out to friends, family, or a church community who can listen without judgment and offer you the support you need. As a certified life coach, you can always reach out to me. If you're in an abusive situation, don’t hesitate to reach out to helplines like the Love Is Respect Helpline at 1-866-331-9474.

Remember, Galatians 6:2 says, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.” You don’t have to bear the weight of your trauma alone.

3. Take Care of Yourself: Rebuild from Within

Healing from trauma involves more than just emotional recovery. It’s essential to practice self-care and nurture yourself physically, mentally, and spiritually. When you focus on building yourself up, you will find new strength to confront and overcome the pain.

Another woman in the Beauty for Ashes group was Lisa. Lisa struggled with OCD and severe anxiety after enduring years of abuse. Her abuser would isolate her from the world, making her feel unworthy of love or friendship. The trauma left her socially isolated, and even after she escaped the abusive environment, she found it difficult to trust others or herself.

Through prayer, therapy, and leaning into God’s Word, Lisa began to take small steps toward healing. She immersed herself in Scripture, holding fast to Isaiah 40:31,"But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." This daily reminder of God's strength helped Lisa rebuild her life one day at a time.

4. Process Your Emotions: Give Yourself Permission to Feel

Burying your emotions will only delay healing. Allow yourself to grieve, feel anger, and cry over what has happened. Journaling, creative outlets, and prayer are all helpful ways to process your emotions.

Psalm 34:18 reminds us, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” God is present with you in the midst of your pain. He is ready to carry your burdens and walk with you through the storm.

5. Set Boundaries: Protect Your Healing Space

Once you recognize the toxic patterns that have held you captive, it’s essential to set firm boundaries. Express your needs clearly and stick to them. Healing requires you to guard your heart and mind. Proverbs 4:23 says, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” Healthy boundaries help protect the healing work God is doing within you.

6. Challenge Negative Beliefs: Replace Lies with God’s Truth

Trauma often embeds deep-seated lies that tell you that you’re not worthy, not loved, or not good enough. It’s essential to recognize and challenge these false beliefs. Replacing them with the truth of God’s Word will begin to reshape your identity. Romans 8:37 boldly declares, “In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” You are victorious in Christ. No trauma can define you when your identity is rooted in God’s love.

7. Distance Yourself: Physical and Emotional Separation

Healing from trauma often requires physical and emotional distance from the abuser. This space allows you to focus on your recovery and rebuild your life without the constant threat of harm.

2 Corinthians 6:17 encourages us, “Come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord.” You have the strength through Christ to create the space necessary for your healing.

8. Make a Plan: Prepare for the Future

If you are in a situation where you need to leave an abusive relationship, consider all the necessary steps to ensure your safety and well-being. Planning ahead can help you regain control over your life.

Commit your plans to the Lord, as Proverbs 16:3 reminds us: "Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans."

9. Join a Support Group: Find Strength in Community

Recovery is often more manageable when surrounded by others who understand your journey. A support group, whether through your church or a local organization, can provide encouragement, accountability, and a safe space to heal. In community, you will find the embodiment of Ecclesiastes 4:9-10:"Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up."

Breaking free from trauma is a journey, but you don’t have to walk it alone. God sees you, loves you, and desires to bring healing to every part of your life. Like Sarah and Lisa, you too can overcome the chains of trauma, step into freedom, and experience the abundant life that Jesus promised.

With faith, support, and a plan, you will be empowered to move forward, transform your pain into purpose, and live in the freedom that is yours in Christ. Psalm 147:3 says, “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” Trust in His power to heal your heart.

One-on-one coaching is available. Reach out to have a guide through this healing journey.