Breaking Generational Silence: A Guide to Disrupt Unhealthy Family Patterns and Heal Inherited Trauma

by Nicole Russell-Wharton

From regarded mental health expert Nicole Russell-Wharton, a guide to disrupt family patterns and heal from inherited trauma so you can break the cycle of silence for generations to come

What if one conversation was able to redirect a person’s life and create a ripple effect of healing that spans generations? It took a near-death experience for mental health expert Nicole Russell-Wharton to realize that after 35 years, she didn't know the body she was living in. After being diagnosed with a rare life-altering genetic condition that others in her family had, Nicole couldn't understand how everyone remained silent. “I’ve suffered through many things in silence over the years,” says Russell-Wharton. “It wasn’t until I started collecting data on generational issues like poverty and trauma that I had this awakening: our healing challenges are rooted in our families’ silence and psychological pathology.”

It's the silence that's harming us.

“Generational silence” is a term applied to families who have experienced suppressed thoughts or repressed emotions for at least two generations. In this book, Nicole speaks from personal experience about how slavery left an intergenerational impact on her family’s emotional and physical health, and it invites readers to explore the legacy of their own family history. This book will help you explore:

• The cycle and impact of issues like substance abuse, religion, racism, education inequality, and parenting
• Research, practical tools, and exercises to begin to explore your family history and open up conversations
• The root of silence in your own life, so you can break the cycle for generations to come

Breaking Generational Silence will help you begin to break the cycle of silence, find the courage to face your family challenges, and become your own best advocate.

Genres: Psychology, Self Help

270 pages, Paperback

Published February 4, 2025

Reviews

[Taylor · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a little heavy on the Black/PoC generational silence/inherited trauma, which I sort of wish had been indicated in the title or subtitle. Because frankly, much of the petty BS my family, for instance, has passed on through generations pales in comparison to what Black/PoC pass on through generations (I can't compete, if you can even call it that, with a history of slavery, murder, etc., for instance). But I guess no matter what, it's all relative, so trauma/unhealthy patterns mean different things to different families and people.

But in any case, I found myself constantly questioning what made the author qualified to write this book. Other than essentially sharing the practices she herself has adopted to break the trauma cycle, I would have liked to see some formal education or career in this area to make her more credible as an author. Otherwise, I question from an educational standpoint what's really "healthy" or "right" just based on her word. I would have trusted a doctor, therapist, or someone who specializes in this field more.

[LemontreeLime · Rating 4 out of 5]

I recieved a copy of this on Netgalley to read in exchange for a review. Ave.

I read this in a hurry before it expired on my netgalley shelf, and will not be released for a few more months. This book has A LOT of things to say. Many of them difficult, some triggering, but some extremely powerful and inspiring too. I feel like a good editor could have firmed up the flow of the narratives within the text. But as is, the author is real as rain, you can feel her enthusiasm for digging deep into life. She asks questions about silence that are very uncomfortable. The things we dont or wont say. Give this a read, ask yourself those questions too. Your answers may change you.

[Robin Perkins · Rating 2 out of 5]

I received this book as part of a Goodreads giveaway.

I enjoyed the first section of this book, but as I continued reading my enjoyment kept sliding down. This book is separated into 3 parts and I feel as though all 3 parts were different books. There were interesting insights sprinkled throughout and things I hope to take forward with me, but I wish we could have delved deeper into the topics from the first section instead of veering off into other topics. I think my understanding of the title was not delivered throughout the book.

[Magen · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was not what I thought it was, and it was not quite for me as an audience member, but it was nonetheless a decent read that I would recommend particularly to people dealing with intergenerational trauma related to race. It's not deeply rooted in scholarship, but it's relatable.

I didn't love the faith expression, but I appreciated the author pointing out that all spiritual journeys are personal and valid... even if she does low-key suggest that Christianity deserves a second chance with the right community.

[Renee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought this was a good collection of ideas and suggestions for opening up dialogue between generations about important issues, which, left unresolved, can cause generations of pain. I was pretty inspired by the first half, but it did drag on a bit near the end. Regardless, she raises important ideas and makes sound suggestions. I'd love to see more books like this.

[Gina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found myself reflecting a lot while reading this book. Most of the time I wished I was sitting down with a journal next to me. I'll be writing down the prompts to go back to in the future before I return this book to the library. Most of it felt like a conversation with a friend.

[Erika Cruz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book
Great information

[Melissa Cantina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed the print and audiobook. The authors story is inspiring especially for women with Endometriosis or reproductive issues.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book, thank you so much for the ARC!