Trauma

Trauma can be defined as an emotional response to a distressing event.  These events can range from something minor such as a non-life threatening accident to something more severe such as sexual or physical violence.  Reactions immediately following a traumatic event can include shock and denial however longer term reactions may also occur.  These reactions may include unpredictable mood changes, sleep disturbances, flashbacks of the event, physical symptoms such as headaches and nausea, and relationship difficulties.   These reactions are very typical after dealing with a traumatic event but an individual may find that it is difficult to manage these reactions, often feeling stuck and being unable to move forward with their lives.

The good news is that we as human beings have a natural resiliency and can learn to move forward after experiencing a traumatic event.  Once we realize that our reactions to a traumatic event are normal we can learn to manage the symptoms that we may be dealing with.  Rather than be upset with ourselves for not being able to “let go” and “move on” in a timely fashion, it is important that we take the time to utilize appropriate coping mechanisms to manage our symptoms and learn to be compassionate with ourselves.  It may be easy to show empathy towards other human beings for their struggles but sometimes it is hard for us to be able to do this with ourselves during our own times of distress. 

First, we must give ourselves time to adjust after experiencing a traumatic event.  This is the time to be patient with ourselves and our changing emotions and to mourn the losses we've endured.  This is where empathy for ourselves comes into play.  What would you tell a loved one if they've experienced something difficult?  Would you tell them to move on and just forget about it or would you reflect on their reactions and tell them that what they're dealing with is normal and ok.  It is also important to reach out to others and ask for support, friends and family members who will listen and empathize are great resources.  It is also very helpful to talk to others who have also endured a similar traumatic experience.  Joining a support group for survivors of trauma can give someone a place to express themselves openly and to listen to others who have endured similar experiences.  It's important to not feel alone when trying to cope after a traumatic event. 

Engaging in healthy personal habits can also help someone cope after a traumatic event.  This may include trying to make sure you are eating healthy foods on a regular basis and getting physical exercise.  Anxiety after a traumatic event may make it difficult for someone to feel hungry or energetic however it is important to be aware of this and find ways to make it easier to re-engage in healthy habits.  Getting back to regular routines is also a good way to feel “normal” again after a traumatic event.  These routines are predictable and oftentimes we look forward to them.  This is also a good opportunity to look into engaging in new and positive activities, such as reading, getting outside more, learning relaxation techniques, or pursuing a new hobby.  However it is also important that during the time of healing from a traumatic event that we do not make any major life decisions such as changing careers or letting go of important relationships.  These changes are stressful enough when someone isn't recovering from trauma.

Seeking professional help is also another option for when someone is struggling to move forward from their traumatic experience.  If someone is continuing to experience persistent feelings of distress and hopelessness after a traumatic event, a licensed mental health professional can help someone understand their symptoms as well as support a survivor in learning how to cope and develop a plan for managing their lives.  

The great and wonderful poet and writer, Maya Angelou, who dealt with much adversity in her life described resilience the best:  “I can be changed by what's happened to me.  But I refuse to be reduced by it.”