Trauma - How you can deal with it

My last blog covers an over view of trauma. Now let’s look at dealing with it.

Just like death and ageing , at some point, you will almost certainly experience a traumatic event in your lifetime. As a result; along with all of the amazing things that life has to offer, it could be said that trauma is just another part of our experience.

Below are 5 ways that you can help process trauma.

1. Self-Expression

Share your experience about the tragedy. You don’t have to talk about it. You can write/ journal, sculpt, draw or dance.

2. Therapy

Of course, I would say that wouldn’t I! This is certainly what has helped me over the years. Personally, I find having a trusted professional guide me through  the work that I need to do is very important. It relieves any feelings I have of burdening loved ones and friends, provides a safe space and helps me process my feelings.

I have seen a variety of different therapists offering different therapies over the years, each bringing their unique selves. I do have my trusted ‘go to’s’ and I like to mix that with new people and therapies. See article on How to choose a therapist.

3. Meditation

(Re) connect with your soul. You have been hurt. It’s time to look inward.

Meditation can help you reach within yourself to establish a greater sense of inner peace, thereby providing your soul with the emotional nutrients necessary to protect itself.

It is best to have a regular practice of meditation prior to the trauma as connecting to your soul when you are feeling traumatised brings an additional challenge. Even if you have never meditated before you can always start.

Keep in mind that meditation does not have to be silence, cross legged with a candle!

4. Exercise

Regular exercise helps reduce the stress associated with trauma with the production of endorphins, that help regulate your mood.

Also, we know that exercise is good for our bodies and also as our body changes in response to the exercise we often experience an increase in self-esteem.

5. Socialise

A trauma response is often to withdraw. However, humans are fundamentally social beings, by avoiding others, we may be inadvertently depriving ourselves.

You may find it difficult to interact with strangers or friends, that maybe you no longer trust. If that is the case it may be a good idea to find a support group or a club that has an interest you share or would like to get involved in.

The good news is that you can recover from both the emotional and physical damage caused by trauma. Time really is a great healer and needs to be combined with the 5 ways above.

If you need more help and support then click the Help button below