It’s so very important. It can be a bit scary to want to start the healing, or even therapy. This is okay. It’s actually very understandable to have fear of the unknown or desire change. Here are some proven ways to heal from trauma. If you’re interested in healing, individual trauma focused therapy could be the place to start.
The first step in healing from trauma is to begin therapy with a professional. A therapist can offer sound interventions to minimize your symptoms and develop your support.
Here are some outlined coping strategies that could help you along the way.
Acknowledge the Event: It’s often difficult to accept and acknowledge that trauma has occurred. People often choose to stay in denial than acknowledge the event. Acknowledgement can be the first step towards healing thought.
Accept Support: People often want to downplay their need and are hesitant to asking for, and accepting help. Support from friends, colleges, therapist, co- workers and religious professionals can help keep you going when you hit a bump in the road. Support can often be the difference from isolating and stoping your healing, to getting a needed reassurance to keep going.
Practicing Self- Care: This is when someone focuses on their needs and wants to help recover from trauma. It can look different for everyone, but often includes: listening to music, taking a long bath, going out in nature, being physically active, validating self, journaling, getting a massage or eating a nice meal.
Practice Meditation and Mindfulness: Both of these practices are helpful in treating and decreasing anxiety and depression. Research shows that medication and mindfulness can help regenerate your brain, giving it the space and time to heal, which is very needed.
Formulate a Routine: Returning to, or formulating new habits can help a person feel grounded and safe. Finding every day practice that can be consistent and meaningful can help people feel rooted and know what to do next.
Do something creative and fun everyday: Going to new places, having new experiences, and trying foods you’ve never had with loved ones are excellent remedies for trauma. Fun can be a welcome distraction from the day’s stress and provide a new perspective. Creative and expressive activities may provide a way to communicate uncomfortable thoughts and feelings. Drawing, singing, and dancing are all great forms of expression.
Don’t rush the process: A person should never try to rush the process of healing. It takes time, patience and understanding from the person and other people in their life. Part of this involves understanding that healing from trauma is a cycle that could include fallbacks. When bad days occur, people should remind themselves to stay positive, persistent and calm.