Lowered sense of self-worth and confidence. Feelings of shame, guilt, and fear. Hopelessness. Distrust of others. Inability to form healthy relationships. Depression. Anxiety.
These symptoms are heavy in every sense of the word. The weight of it all can feel unbearable and unmanageable. You may not be sure how much more you can take or how much longer you can go on feeling this way.
No matter how long ago your trauma occurred, you may still be dealing with some long-term effects every single day.
Here's how you can recover from emotional trauma.
Types of Emotional Trauma
First, let's take a look at some of the most common types of emotional trauma.
Breakup
Death of a loved one
Losing a job
Loss of a dream
Losing a friendship
Loss of health
Loss of safety after a traumatic event
Miscarriage
Retirement
Selling or moving from a family home
Serious illness of a loved one
Trauma not only causes a shock to our bodies but to our minds and souls as well. Depending on the trauma, it can leave you feeling a loss of trust in other people, disconnected, isolated, and numb.
How to Heal from Emotional Trauma
Healing from emotional trauma takes time, but there are things you can do to help facilitate your healing journey.
Practice Self-Care
After a trauma, it can be easier said than done to focus on yourself. That being said, it's one of the most important things you can do for yourself for healing.
Self-care is known to reduce stress. Make an intention to do things that make you feel good, inside and out. Eat a healthy and balanced diet. Get moving by going to the gym or riding your bike. Go for a walk outside. Self-care could even mean taking a bath or finding time to read each day.
Set time aside for yourself and the things that bring you joy.
Get Creative
Get those creative juices flowing! Having fun by getting creative can be a great way for you to heal as well. Getting creative could mean journaling, writing, reading, or listening to music. It could also mean scrapbooking, painting, coloring, or making pottery. Buy arts and crafts and have an art day at home or find a local art class or studio. Engaging in creative outlets has been proven to be effective in helping with healing.
Practice Mindfulness or Meditation
One of the main ideas behind mindfulness and meditation is staying grounded and in the present moment. Practicing yoga, meditation, or breathwork exercises can help you relieve stress and anxiety and make you feel more relaxed.
Connect With Others
In order to heal, you have to be willing to accept the help and support from others around you. Support could come in many forms like a family member, friend, colleague, support group, or therapist. Others are able and willing to help you if you are open to receiving their support.
If a support group seems like a good option for you, explore support groups in your area. It's a great way to surround yourself with others who may have a similar experience and understanding. Another great option for support is reaching out to a therapist, especially one who may specialize in trauma.
How Infinite Transformations Counseling Can Help
Healing from trauma can feel impossible, but it can be done. We believe that every individual, family, and marriage can become stronger and heal.
If you're ready to begin your transformative journey, contact us today for a consultation.
