As our journey continues through the dense forests of academic exploration, we arrive at our third break – a clearing that provides respite and where we can catch our breath. Given the emotional and, at times, complex topics covered in the preceding chapters, we may be feeling a bit weary by now, but this pause is essential for us to reflect on the ground we have covered so far. Picture this clearing not just as a place to rest but as a crucial overlook where we can see how the terrain we have crossed has shaped our path. Each twist and turn in our recent chapters has forged new trails of understanding, much like a river carving its way through a rugged landscape. Here, we’ll take the time to reflect on the intricate patterns and intersections that have emerged in these chapters, concerned with a host of potential dilemmas and challenges that, on first inspection, may be hidden from view.

In Chapter 10, Lisa Edge critically examines PhD students’ challenges with complex trauma within the neoliberal university system. Despite the promotion of mental health awareness in higher education, Lisa argues that the structural and cultural barriers in academia can exacerbate the difficulties for students dealing with trauma. We are invited to consider how the competitive, individualistic culture of academia often mirrors the traumatic experiences of these students, making their academic journey particularly precarious. Lisa also critiques the commercialisation of ‘trauma-informed’ approaches, highlighting the importance of genuine safety and trust in supervisory relationships. Suppose you are a supervisor or considering supervising for the first time.