Trauma monetization, defined by social media influencer Kimberly Rhoades, has led to TikTok users exposing their tragedies. This has destigmatized mental illness and increased trauma coaching, when coaches share their trauma experiences. Most of these coaches are not therapists, and social media trauma and recovery information is often poor.
Social media influencers like Kimberly Rhoades and Elizabeth Wurtzel play trauma-dumping comedians, popularizing trauma monetization. These social media stars can share their hopes, pains, and traumas due to their millions of followers and participation. Trauma monetization began with Elizabeth Wurtzel’s memoir Prozac Nation, which opened up autobiography to discuss mental illness.
As trauma coaching has grown, so has information about trauma and coping strategies. Most of these coaches are not therapists, but they are eager to discuss their trauma stories. The quality of trauma and trauma recovery material on social media worries psychiatrist and trauma specialist Dr. Frank Anderson. He wants people would admit to not having psychiatric or counseling training.
Dr. DeAnna Crosby, clinical director of New Method Wellness and psychology specialist, warns that unlicensed trauma support workers can be deadly. Crosby feels that many coaches discuss trauma with clients and then send them out into the world without aftercare.
Eliza VanCort, an author, consultant, and keynote speaker, was traumatized by her mother’s mental illness and TBI. She found that using her personal experience in her talks kept listeners engaged. However, she admits that it wouldn’t work without her trauma processing. After years of hard therapy, VanCort was able to talk about her trauma in interviews.
Support before discussing trauma is vital in the trauma profession. Anderson supports communicating trauma if it helps others, but he worries about “trauma dumping” or discussing trauma without warning. Sharing unresolved issues might overwhelm and worsen symptoms.
The anonymity of the internet can bring out the worst in people. Always consider why you’re sharing information, says Anderson. It’s fine for education and awareness, but not for love and support.
Conclusion
Sharing personal traumas to acquire followers and pay for content is a growing social media trend. This has destigmatized mental illness and promoted trauma coaching without training. Psychiatrist and trauma specialist Dr. Frank Anderson warns about information quality and sharing without training. Author and keynote speaker Eliza VanCort advises processing trauma before sharing.
