Whereas scrolling by way of your For You Web page on TikTok, you might need heard Nicki Minaj’s tune “Tremendous Freaky Woman” enjoying within the background of almost each video — and nicely, there’s a motive for that.

@kenasue I feel i nonetheless have the bra someplace #onethingaboutme #storytime #story #victoriassecret ♬ authentic sound – Mak

Over the previous few weeks, TikTok customers have been taking it to this social media platform to share their traumatic tales to the beat of the favored rap tune.

I do know, it sounds a bit unusual. However there may very well be a motive why this development has gained a lot recognition — it may be therapeutic. 

If you happen to’re like myself, then you might all the time be on the hunt for brand new methods to enhance your psychological well being. Whereas remedy and medicine are nice, typically you simply wish to cope in a extra lighthearted and relatable approach.

The #OneThingAboutMe development requires simply that.

In response to Kristen Gingrich, licensed scientific social employee and authorized scientific supervisor, this development falls into the class of storytelling which is definitely utilized in conventional remedy modalities to work by way of and heal trauma. 

“Storytelling permits folks to hook up with their trauma in a approach that they’ve management over,” she says. “It additionally permits people the chance to rethink the ways in which they see their trauma, handle issues like cognitive distortions, and provides them a approach to make sense of their trauma.” 

Movies which have been posted as a part of this ongoing development vary in matters from encounters with creepy folks to the lack of a guardian. The matters range relying on the person, however a standard theme amongst them appears to be recalling incidents and occasions that one felt had been very traumatic for them. 

@ramo_akh Primarily based Off A True Story #onethingaboutme #storytime #arab #fyp ♬ authentic sound – Ramo Akh

Seeing others share their tales might be therapeutic too, says Gingrich.

“It offers us a approach to join with others who might have gone by way of related issues whereas additionally permitting followers to attach and really feel like they aren’t alone.” 

One of many nice elements of social media is that you just’re sure to seek out creators and individuals who have gone by way of related experiences, and relate over it. Even Gingrich says she has watched lots of the movies and has felt “seen” because of this. 

Singing the tune to a beat (or approach off the beat in lots of instances) seemingly has no actual affect on the potential therapeutic advantages itself. Nevertheless, it would function a pathway for folks to start to really feel comfy sharing their tales because it has develop into such a well-liked development. 

@mischmacc She’s an excellent freak for positive. #superfreak #ChewTheVibes #freestyle #relationship ♬ Tremendous Freaky Woman – Nicki Minaj

With that mentioned, TikTok is a really public discussion board and these movies tend to go viral. Meaning you’ll be sharing your story with 1000’s, if not tens of millions of individuals. 

“I feel an obstacle of this development is actually placing out private data to the world and the world responding,” says Gingrich. “I’ve seen a couple of responses to a few of these movies that had been very hateful and even sufferer blaming which might have an effect on the unique poster and even the individuals who might even see the response.” 

Sadly, not everybody on social media is good.

Sure, we’re speaking about trolls and haters. However when you have some thick pores and skin and assume that hopping on the One Factor About Me development won’t solely be therapeutic for you, but additionally assist others, then it might be value a shot to provide it a attempt. 

Backside line: TikTok tendencies come and go.

One factor about TikTok is…tendencies aren’t without end. “One factor about me” could also be in style proper now, however when you’re not able to share your most traumatic experiences with the web, don’t do it simply to remain “related.” 

Your story is just yours to inform in your phrases and the way you need it and there’s energy in that.