Open the Can of Worms: A poem about dealing with trauma

Earlier this year the Blue Knot newsletter promoted a poem by Tracey Farrell, a mental health Social Worker who is a passionate advocate for people overcoming childhood trauma and adversity. The poem was written after consultation with workers and survivors of trauma in relation to their experiences of receiving and providing mental health support, in particular worker’s concern regarding "opening the can of worms".  

Sometimes talking about trauma can feel scary for workers, as we don’t want to "open the can of worms", but it may be an important part of the journey for those who have experienced traumatic events. 

"I heard you talking as I was walking

by your open door

Telling each other to

stick to the presenting issue,

Don’t go opening a can of worms

keep to our core

Let’s do this on our terms.

…...

To read the full poem click here.