Why do people want a “witness” to their trauma?

A cornerstone of trauma treatment for decades has been the telling of the story to a "witness." But telling "what happened" is not just a drive to be “witnessed.”

Human beings want to be heard when they are afraid, distressed, angry, hurt, or lonely because they want someone to help “do something” in an attempt to shift their nervous system state.

A cry for help is a natural response. It is an instinctive response for children especially, or anyone feeling vulnerable.

So, "wanting to be heard" while healing trauma may be a feeling memory of the longing to be helped, not a present day longing to be acknowledged.

It makes so much sense to want to be helped… then and now. And what strength you have, for trying to get what you need. Keep going.