Surviving Columbine. Anxiety, Triggers, and Learning Safety Again

In this episode, I’m joined by Heidi Johnson, a survivor of the Columbine school shooting, for a compassionate conversation about trauma, anxiety, and the nervous system.

This episode is not graphic. Instead, we explore how anxiety can develop after traumatic experiences, why the body can continue to feel unsafe long after the event has passed, and how healing is possible through understanding and compassion.

We talk about triggers, survival responses, and what it’s really like living with anxiety after trauma. Most importantly, this conversation is about removing shame and helping you understand that your body isn’t broken, it learned how to survive.

If you’ve ever felt on edge for no clear reason, struggled with panic, or wondered why anxiety hasn’t gone away even when life feels calm, this episode will help you understand yourself better and feel less alone.

Listener discretion advised. This episode includes discussion around trauma and anxiety.

This episode is for information and educational purposes only. It reflects personal experiences and is not medical or therapeutic advice. Listening does not create a professional relationship. If you’re struggling, please seek support from a qualified professional.