I'm sorry to hear that you had to go through bullying during your school years. Experiencing such trauma can have lasting effects, and it's understandable that seeing the individuals who bullied you can trigger strong emotions. Getting over these feelings can be challenging, but there are some strategies you can try:
Recognize your emotions: Acknowledge that it's okay to feel fear, anger, indignation, and jealousy. These emotions are valid responses to what you experienced. Accepting your feelings can be an essential step in moving forward.
Practice self-compassion: Be kind to yourself and understand that it's natural to have vulnerabilities and emotions. Don't judge yourself for feeling this way or compare yourself to others negatively.
Seek support: Talk to friends, family, or a therapist about your feelings. Sharing your experiences and emotions with someone you trust can be therapeutic and help you process what happened.
Practice mindfulness and grounding techniques: When you feel overwhelmed by these emotions, try grounding exercises or mindfulness techniques to bring yourself back to the present moment. Deep breathing, meditation, or focusing on your senses can be helpful.
Challenge negative thoughts: If you find yourself thinking negatively about your past or comparing yourself to others, try to challenge those thoughts. Remind yourself of your strengths, achievements, and growth since those difficult times.
Engage in positive activities: Focus on activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. Engaging in hobbies, sports, or creative pursuits can help shift your focus away from the negative emotions.
Set boundaries: If you consistently encounter the people who bullied you, consider setting boundaries to protect your emotional well-being. You might limit your contact with them or avoid situations where you know you'll come across them.
Practice forgiveness: Forgiveness doesn't mean condoning what happened, but it can be a way to release yourself from the emotional burden. Forgive for your own healing, not for the benefit of the people who hurt you.
Consider professional help: If you find it challenging to cope with these emotions on your own, consider seeking professional counseling or therapy. A therapist can provide guidance and support as you work through your feelings.
Remember that healing takes time, and it's okay to have ups and downs along the way. Be patient with yourself and celebrate the progress you make. You deserve to move forward and live a life free from the weight of past traumas.