The concept of trauma has evolved significantly since its inception in the 1980s as a medical diagnosis for those who have experienced catastrophic events. However, today it’s often used to describe everyday experiences like stress and anxiety. This shift has led to an entire industry built around trauma, with many claiming to offer solutions and healing.
Trauma has become a cultural phenomenon, where people share their personal struggles online and receive validation and attention. While this can be helpful for some, others argue that it trivializes the suffering of those who have truly endured traumatic experiences. The proliferation of self-help books, podcasts, and seminars on trauma has created a market for “trauma-informed” solutions.
Trauma is often used as an excuse to avoid personal agency and responsibility. It’s a way to justify one’s actions without confronting the root causes of problems. This trend is not only damaging but also creates a sense of dependency on others for validation.
Research suggests that labeling distress as a mental health problem can increase symptoms, making it a self-fulfilling prophecy. The more we focus on trauma, the narrower our lives become. Instead of addressing the underlying issues, we’re often provided with quick fixes and band-aids to mask our pain.
The true cost of this obsession with trauma is that those who have truly suffered are being eclipsed by those who can afford to share their stories online. The privileged get platformed while systemic suffering is ignored.
It’s time for a shift in perspective. Instead of relying on the label “trauma,” we should focus on building resilience and promoting personal growth. We need to recognize that pain is an inherent part of life, but it’s not something to be ashamed of or exploited for profit.
We must also acknowledge that the trauma industry has become a moral and political category, determining who deserves resources and compassion. It’s time to redefine what it means to be traumatized and recognize that true healing comes from within.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/ng-interactive/2025/dec/14/trauma-mental-health