Written by Shoval T’Shuva
Trauma has a way of making us feel powerless—like a passenger in our own lives, watching as events unfold beyond our control. But storytelling can be a way to take back the narrative, to reclaim our experiences on our own terms. Whether through art, writing, filmmaking, or even telling our stories to a friend, the act of shaping our pain into something tangible can be transformative.
When I made Funky, a film inspired by my own experiences, I wasn’t just telling a story—I was taking ownership of one. The process of creating it became a form of healing, a way to confront what had happened to me without letting it define me. And in sharing it with audiences, I realized that storytelling doesn’t just help the creator—it can be a bridge for others who’ve gone through similar experiences, reminding them they’re not alone.
Why Storytelling Helps Heal Trauma
It Gives Us Control
Trauma often robs us of agency, leaving us feeling helpless. But storytelling allows us to reshape events in a way that makes sense to us. When writing Funky, I had the power to decide what parts of my experience to highlight and how to frame them. I infused the film with humor because that’s how I process things in real life—acknowledging the pain but refusing to let it be the only defining element.
Through this process, I wasn’t just revisiting my trauma—I was reclaiming it, turning it into something I could hold, examine, and ultimately share on my own terms.
It Allows Us to Be Seen
One of the hardest parts of trauma is the isolation it creates. It can feel like no one else understands, like you’re carrying this weight alone. But when we share our stories, whether through film, essays, or conversations, we remind ourselves and others that we’re not alone.
When Funky screened at festivals, people came up to me afterward, sharing their own experiences. Some had been through similar things, others just related to the emotions at the heart of the film. That kind of connection is invaluable—it’s a reminder that healing isn’t just about personal growth, but about finding community in the process.
It Gives Meaning to Pain
I don’t believe that everything happens for a reason—some things are just painful, unfair, and deeply unjust. But storytelling allows us to create meaning from what happened. It’s not about tying trauma up in a neat bow but about making something from it, even if that something is simply a conversation, a piece of art, or a film that lets someone else feel seen.
Funky wasn’t about teaching a lesson or finding a silver lining. It was about honesty—about what healing looks like in all its awkward, nonlinear, sometimes funny, sometimes heartbreaking ways.
Ways to Use Storytelling for Healing
Journaling
Writing freely about your experiences, even if no one else reads it, can be incredibly therapeutic. Back in November, I started journaling every morning, and I feel like it has transformed my life. I start by listing at least five things I am thankful for and create a prompt for each day at the beginning of each month.
Being Creative
Turning personal experiences into art, whether fictionalized or not, can be a powerful way to process emotions. Funky was my way of doing this, and I encourage anyone struggling with trauma to explore creative outlets that resonate with them.
Speaking Your Story
Sharing in safe spaces, whether with friends, therapists, or support groups, can be incredibly healing. Feeling seen by someone can mean so much. I remember when I first started speaking about the assault, one of my best friends let me talk without asking any questions. She let me go at my own pace, and that was truly what I needed.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve experienced trauma, your story is yours to tell, in whatever way feels right. And if you’re not ready to tell it yet, that’s okay too. But when the time comes, know that your voice matters—and your story has power.
For trauma informed support, please visit the Therapist Directory and TILA Trainings and the Speakers Bureau.