Identifying and Managing Caregiver Trauma ft. Lisa Saruga

In this episode of Sandwich Season Sanity, Ruthie sits down with Lisa Saruga to explore the often overlooked topic of caregiving trauma. Lisa, a therapist and author of The Trauma Tree, shares her personal experiences of managing care for elderly relatives, highlighting the emotional and sensory overload that caregiving can bring. Both Ruthie and Lisa underscore the reality that caregiving involves not just physical demands, but deep emotional challenges, and subtle stresses that can have a profound impact on the caregiver’s mental health.

Throughout the conversation, Lisa unpacks the science behind trauma, explaining how experiences are stored in the brain and how triggers can unexpectedly resurface powerful emotions. The discussion moves beyond simply surviving as a caregiver, focusing on practical ways to find resilience, hope, and even joy amidst ongoing stress. 

Lisa offers both expert insight and practical tools for our listeners to access that will help caregivers dealing with trauma. 

Be sure to check the show notes for links to Lisa’s book, website (lisasaruga.com), and free journaling techniques to help you process and find peace during challenging seasons of care.

Resources:

• Lisa's Book: The Trauma Tree
• Visit Lisa's website: LisaSaruga.com to download The Trauma Tree Spotify Companion Playlist & Writing R.A.W. Journaling Technique
• Ruthie's Next Steps Retreat: Learn More Here

Note: Affiliate links may be included.

Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com

Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter

Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose

Join Ruthie's Next Steps Retreat