(((((DPS)))))) Things that hurt call out attention to them. it doesn't need to be "brooding" on something to have this happen, and I feel you have been through enough that there are a lot of painfull memories.

No, your survival does not negate how severe those injuries are/were. Chances are you survived in spite of how bad they were. And you know what? The byzantine is right in one thing especially. You are alive here and now, and there is a chance for you to make sure that YOU write the rest of your story, not anyone else.
It hurts, and hurting makes us turn inward. But don't stay there, dear. There's a world out there, and THAT is your inheritance as a survivor. Go on and conquer it DPS. HUUUUGGGGSSSS.