Glossary in plain language

A trigger is something that reminds your body or mind of past pain. It can bring big feelings fast, even if you are safe right now.

Dissociation is when you feel disconnected from your body, feelings, or surroundings. It can be a protective response when stress feels too intense.

Regulation means helping your body return to a steadier state after stress. It is not about being calm all the time, but about recovering with support.

Grounding is a simple way to reconnect to the present moment. It may include breathing, noticing what you can see, or feeling your feet on the floor.

Codependency is a pattern where your needs get pushed aside while you focus on fixing, rescuing, or managing others.

A boundary is a clear limit that protects your time, energy, body, and emotional well-being. Healthy boundaries support connection, not punishment.

Shame is the painful feeling that "something is wrong with me." Healing helps shift shame into truth: what happened to you is not your fault.

A craving is a strong urge to use a substance or return to a coping habit. Urges are real, and they can rise and fall with support and time.

Relapse means returning to a behavior you were trying to stop. It can be a learning point, not a moral failure.

A safe support person is someone who listens without judgment, respects your pace, and does not pressure you to share more than you want.