Folks often come to therapy asking, "What is wrong with me?" The correct question, and the one we will explore is, "What happened to you?"
Book Recommendation:
What Happened to You? – The Power of Trauma-Informed Therapy
In What Happened to You? Conversations on Trauma, Resilience, and Healing, Dr. Bruce Perry and Oprah Winfreyexplore how childhood trauma shapes our brain, behavior, and emotional well-being. Instead of asking, “What’s wrong with you?” they shift the perspective to “What happened to you?”—a question that fosters compassion, understanding, and healing.
This book is a must-read for anyone interested in mental health, therapy, or personal growth, as it highlights the profound effects of early experiences on our ability to regulate emotions, form relationships, and navigate life’s challenges.
The Importance of Trauma-Informed Therapy
One of the book’s core messages is that traditional therapy often focuses on symptoms, but trauma-informed therapy goes deeper by addressing the root causes of emotional struggles.
Trauma rewires the brain – Early stress can alter brain development, leading to emotional dysregulation, impulsivity, and heightened stress responses.
Healing requires safety and connection – Trauma-informed therapy focuses on building trust, emotional regulation, and self-compassion.
Behavior is communication – Instead of labeling someone as “difficult” or “broken,” trauma-informed approaches help understand why certain behaviors exist and how to heal from them.
Why This Book Matters
Oprah shares personal stories of resilience, while Dr. Perry provides scientific insights into how trauma affects the brain. Their combined perspectives create a powerful narrative that emphasizes hope, healing, and the importance of compassionate care.
Key takeaway: Trauma does not define you—healing is possible through understanding, self-awareness, and the right support system.
If you or someone you love has experienced trauma, this book offers validation, insights, and a new path toward healing. Let’s shift the conversation from blame to understanding—because healing starts with asking the right question.
Have you read What Happened to You? What were your biggest takeaways?
Let’s discuss in the comments!
Comments