The Hidden Effects of Unresolved Sexual Trauma

Create The Best Me

The Hidden Effects of Unresolved Sexual Trauma is something most people hope never to face, yet countless survivors find that trauma they thought was buried resurfaces in unexpected, and often disruptive, ways. In this episode, I sit down with somatic psychotherapist and author Erika Shershun, who specializes in helping survivors understand and heal from the hidden effects of unresolved sexual trauma. Drawing not only from her clinical expertise but also her own personal healing journey, Erika reveals why these experiences linger and how real, lasting transformation is possible.

From mysterious physical symptoms to emotional triggers that appear years later, Erika and I dive deep into just how powerfully the body and mind store trauma. We discuss why survivors sometimes “forget” what happened, how triggers can unlock painful memories, and why shame often keeps people silent for decades. With empathy and hope, Erika shares actionable steps for beginning the healing process, whether you’re ready to talk to a therapist or need a gentle way to start.

If you or someone you love has experienced sexual trauma, understanding the hidden effects of unresolved sexual trauma is a vital first step toward healing.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why old wounds pop up when you least expect them, and what “unresolved” really means
• How sexual trauma is stored in the body, not just the mind, and why memories can come flooding back years later
• The ways unresolved trauma can manifest: PTSD, hyperarousal, digestive issues, people-pleasing, anger, and more
• The impact of shame and secrecy, and why survivors often freeze or struggle to speak up
• Practical steps to start healing safely, including grounding exercises, using workbooks, and finding a trauma-informed therapist

Call to Action:
Ready to learn more and start your healing journey?

• Download a free chapter of Erika’s workbook “Healing Sexual Trauma” and her digital guide, “The Many Ways to Ground”: https://healingsexualtrauma.com
• Dive deeper into the subject with the full episode and resources: https://createthebestme.com/ep118
• Work with Erika Shershun https://erikashershuntherapy.com/

⚖️ Disclaimer:

This episode discusses sensitive topics, including sexual trauma. The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or mental health advice. Please seek support from a qualified professional if you need help or are experiencing a crisis. The views expressed by guests are their own.

#TheHiddenEffectsofUnresolvedSexualTrauma #SexualTrauma #TraumaHealing #PTSDRecovery #SomaticTherapy #MentalHealth #HealingJourney #SurvivorStories #CreateTheBestMe #ErikaShershunTherapy

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Chapters

1. Introduction: Uncovering Hidden Wounds (00:00:00)

2. Meet Erika Shershun: A Journey of Healing (00:00:30)

3. Understanding Trauma and Its Impact (00:01:58)

4. The Body Remembers: Implicit Memories and Triggers (00:06:40)

5. Coping Mechanisms and Re-victimization (00:10:02)

6. The Importance of Trauma-Informed Care (00:13:37)

7. Symptoms and Behaviors of Unresolved Trauma (00:15:58)

8. Tools for Healing: Grounding and Orienting (00:20:25)

9. Finding the Right Therapist (00:22:41)

10. Final Thoughts and Resources (00:31:26)

11. Conclusion: Embrace Your Healing Journey (00:40:07)