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International We Are Not Broken Day

Aiming to change the narrative that has been told about scars being ugly, We Are Not Broken Day works to bring people from all over the world together to honor their wounds and share their scars as they share their healing. History of International We Are Not Broken Day International We...

Charity Helping Others Mental Health45

Marketing angleinferred

Align your brand with trauma-informed storytelling and mental health advocacy by amplifying survivor narratives and positioning your organization as a champion of healing and dignity.

Relevance 45medium intent

Share customer/community stories of resilience and healing tied to your product or service
Partner with WANB or similar organizations to co-create mental health awareness content
Launch a 'Scars Tell Stories' campaign celebrating imperfection and authenticity in your brand messaging
Offer special promotions or donations to mental health nonprofits during January awareness push

History

International We Are Not Broken Day was founded in 2019 to raise awareness about the fact that all people, including trauma survivors, trauma patients, and those with other mental health issues, deserve to be treated with dignity and not considered “broken”.

The event was established through the efforts of the We Are Not Broken (WANB) organization, whose founder was Nichola Cotto.

This group of people is particularly geared toward telling the stories of women and girls who have experienced trauma.

Their work aims to bring healing, empowerment, and improved mental health by revealing difficulties and embracing trauma through photography of the women’s scars.

How to celebrate

Share Your Story

Those who have been working to heal from traumatic experiences, whether from physical abuse, natural disasters, medical emergencies, accidents, psychological abuse, or some other type of trauma, may be interested in participating in We Are Not Broken Day by telling their stories when they are ready. Share with a friend, write it on a blog, or share it on social media through with scar photos, to help normalize the idea that people who have suffered are not broken!

Support a Friend

Those who haven’t been through trauma themselves but know someone who has can take some time on We Are Not Broken Day to show some encouragement. One of the best ways to do this is simply by offering friendship and a listening countenance. Send them a note to tell them that they are seen and cared for, or treat them to something special like dinner out, a pedicure, or some other small way to say how much you care.

Visit the WANB Gallery of Scars

To gain a better understanding of the work that We Are Not Broken Day represents, head over to their online gallery that houses photos of women and their scars. The organization works to help women feel beautiful and confident about wearing their scars and being proud of the healing that has come behind them. It’s also possible to purchase a copy of a book along the same theme, called Scar Stories.

Reach Out to Find Healing

Those who have experienced trauma but have not been able to find healing for their scars may take We Are Not Broken Day as a motivation to get help. Some might want to reach out to a trusted friend or family member or make an appointment with a trauma-informed therapist. Others might prefer to start through a non-profit organization that focuses on helping people recover from trauma, like one of these: The Trauma Survivors Foundation Partnerships for Trauma RecoveryCPTSD Foundation National Alliance of Trauma Recovery Centers

FAQ

How does storytelling aid in trauma recovery?

Storytelling aids in trauma recovery by helping individuals integrate traumatic memories, reduce symptoms of PTSD, and foster social support. It offers a therapeutic way to process experiences and emotions. Creative storytelling through art or writing can externalize experiences, helping reclaim agency.

Why is self-acceptance crucial for healing from trauma?

Self-acceptance is crucial for healing from trauma as it allows individuals to acknowledge and embrace all aspects of themselves, including their trauma. This acceptance reduces self-stigma and promotes psychological resilience, helping individuals to heal emotionally.

What role does community play in the recovery process for trauma survivors?

Community plays a significant role in trauma recovery by providing support, understanding, and connection. Being part of a supportive community reduces feelings of isolation, enhances emotional support, and increases resilience by offering practical resources and shared experiences.

Can creative expression help with emotional healing?

Yes, creative expression such as photography, painting, or writing can aid emotional healing by allowing individuals to express their feelings non-verbally. This form of expression can help process difficult emotions, promote self-discovery, and result in a sense of empowerment and achievement.

How can society change perceptions of individuals impacted by trauma?

Society can change perceptions by normalizing conversations about trauma and promoting narratives that emphasize resilience and strength rather than brokenness. Public awareness campaigns and educational efforts that focus on empathy and understanding can help shift public opinion and reduce stigma.