Healing From Trauma
Trauma is a “deeply distressing or disturbing experience” (Oxford Dictionary). This can define a singular experience, a series of unrelated events, or systemic episodes. Trauma is something that we carry long after the experience has passed. It may replay in our minds and dreams constantly, and it impacts how we live our daily lives. Trauma is not always forward-facing, and sometimes, through therapy, we find that we act in a certain way because of past experiences that have shaped our reactions and behaviors. Healing from Trauma can be a lifelong process; no matter what, it is something we may always carry with us.
However, even if there is no way to erase trauma truly, there are ways to work through trauma so it does not control your life. Seeking professional assistance from a licensed therapist is a great place to start. Trauma can be abuse at the hands of others, an injury or illness, an abrupt change, or a horrible experience. Often, we must reenter the same space (literally or figuratively) in which trauma occurred. This can seem impossible and terrifying without professional guidance.
However, even if there is no way to erase trauma truly, there are ways to work through trauma so it does not control your life. Seeking professional assistance from a licensed therapist is a great place to start. Trauma can be abuse at the hands of others, an injury or illness, an abrupt change, or a horrible experience. Often, we must reenter the same space (literally or figuratively) in which trauma occurred. This can seem impossible and terrifying without professional guidance.
Processing Past Trauma
Starting at the beginning can feel impossible. Taking those first steps is scary, and reliving those traumas even in a safe place with people who want to help you can be beyond difficult. Most people hide their trauma away and don’t want to talk about it. This may work in the short term, but hiding such a piece of your past (even if it’s a piece you have and never want to remember) can be determinate to being able to move on.
Once you are ready, a therapist will provide support as you open up about your trauma. Be patient with yourself. It may have taken years to find the courage to reach out to a therapist. It is ok if it takes time before you can open up. There is no timeline or rule book when it comes to processing your past trauma.
Moving Forward Through Trauma
Sharing your trauma with someone who can help you is the first step. Is this a recent event, did it happen years ago, or is it currently happening? Are you in a safe place with people who care for and support you? There may be situations that, during therapy, you realize are getting in the way of your healing. Maybe there are people in your life who are difficult to be around. Surrounding yourself with support is key to continuing to move forward. In addition to individual sessions, group therapy is a tool that you can utilize.
Finding Peace and Healing After Trauma
Trauma is not your fault, and it is not something that you can prevent. There are no specifics about what is or is not a traumatic event. Trauma is any experience that has left you unable to move forward. Accepting and processing your trauma, along with finding peace, may be a continuous journey for you. This does not mean you cannot move forward. Continue to find ways that bring you peace and happiness.
There is no right or wrong path. Here are a few steps that can help you on your journey to finding peace:
- Therapy: You may exercise to keep your body in shape, read, or pursue additional education to grow your intellect. Therapy is important to support our emotional well-being. This benefits your relationships, work-life balance, family, and happiness.
- Personal Outlets: Sometimes, having a way to express yourself, outside of speaking, can be very cathartic. Art, gardening, meditating, crafting are a few examples, but many outlets may help express what you do not always have the words to say.
- Self-Care: Self-care is taking the time to check in with yourself and make sure you are in a good place. Meditating is a great way to slow down and reset your thoughts. Journaling is a great way to reflect on how you are feeling.
If you are struggling to cope, our team at Renewed Wellness is ready to listen and help you process your past trauma. Please reach out for a free consultation to find a therapist who will best help you on your journey to healing.
