“What Happened to You? Conversations on Trauma, Resilience, and HealinG”

This book, released in 2021, stands out for its compassionate approach towards understanding trauma and its lasting impacts on individuals.

The book is structured as a series of conversations between Winfrey and Perry, creating an engaging and accessible format that balances personal anecdotes with scientific insights. Oprah Winfrey shares her own experiences of childhood trauma, offering readers a deeply personal perspective. Dr. Perry complements this with his expertise in neuroscience and child psychology, explaining how traumatic events, especially in childhood, can shape the brain and, consequently, behaviour and health in adulthood.

A key strength of this book is its emphasis on reframing the question from "What's wrong with you?" to "What happened to you?" This shift in perspective creates a more empathetic and understanding approach to dealing with trauma. It moves away from judgement and towards a narrative of understanding and healing, which is a refreshing and much-needed change in how society addresses mental health and trauma.

The authors discuss the impact of trauma on brain development, the role of relationships in healing, and the importance of community and support systems in building resilience. The book is filled with real-life examples and stories, making the content relatable and compelling.

However, readers seeking a step-by-step guide or quick solutions might be disappointed. The book is more about understanding the depth and complexity of trauma rather than providing direct therapeutic techniques. But it does offer hope and a way forward, emphasising the power of understanding, empathy, and connection in healing.

IMO, "What Happened to You?" is a must-read for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of human behaviour, trauma, and the journey towards healing. Oprah and Dr. Perry have created an enlightening book that challenges us to think differently about trauma and offers a hopeful perspective on resilience and recovery.