SELF HELP
During the trauma healing process, it is important to practice self-care. You can do this by doing things you enjoy, such as showering, reading, watching TV, or spending time with family and friends. You must do whatever is necessary during this healing process. Always allow yourself to cry, be angry, and express your feelings during the trauma healing process.
Never numb your feelings with the help of drugs or alcohol. These substances do more harm than good during the trauma healing process. To get over your trauma, you must face your feelings and take care of yourself. Turning off your feelings will only prolong the pain you are experiencing:
Get More Rest
A healthy amount of sleep is good for everyone but can be especially beneficial for those recovering from trauma. Listening to your body is essential during trauma treatment, and when your body tells you to rest, make sure to sleep. However, it's critical to monitor how much sleep you're getting and look for signs that depression medication may be helping. Regular and adequate sleep is essential for dealing with trauma. Many trauma survivors struggle with a regular sleep schedule, so it's necessary to consult your doctor if you're having trouble sleeping.
Find someone to talk to
A widespread way of self-care after trauma is to talk with someone. If this is your personality type, it's essential to find someone who listens to you and lets you talk about how you feel. Group therapy is an excellent option for trauma survivors who prefer to talk about their feelings. It can be helpful to talk to others who have had similar experiences to yours or to a therapist who specializes in treating trauma and PTSD. If you feel uncomfortable in a group, having only one person to listen and support you is a good idea.
Diary about it
Sometimes you're not ready to talk about it; however, holding back emotions is also unhealthy. A good alternative is to keep a journal and write your feelings down on paper; this is a helpful first step in overcoming a traumatic experience.
Use exercise as a tool
Exercise can often be a great way to treat yourself after an injury. It's vital to incorporate regular physical activity into your routine, whether walking, running, or going to the gym. In addition to exercise and sleep, relaxation techniques, controlled breathing, and meditation can also be beneficial. Find Engaging Hobbies
Finding or developing new hobbies is a great self-care tool. This could include, but is not limited to:
Writing
Art
Gardening
Sewing
Knitting
Photography
This is an abbreviated list because many hobbies can be categorized as ideal for post-traumatic self-care.
Identifying triggers is critical to trauma therapy
In addition to practicing post-traumatic self-care, identifying possible triggers related to your traumatic experience can also help. You will likely increase your sense of security by identifying these triggers and implementing coping strategies.
Identifying places and people where you feel safe can help, and avoiding areas where you feel insecure can also make you feel better. Be prepared with a grounding exercise if you get triggered. Grounding will help you focus on your body and five senses, keeping you in the moment while helping you not relive the trauma. These techniques focus on your five senses and make you feel safe.
What is NOT considered self-care after trauma?
It is essential to avoid drugs and alcohol during trauma treatment. These substances only prolong the healing process. Although they can temporarily numb your feelings and make you feel better, using these substances too often can lead to addiction, trouble sleeping, or health problems.
Coping with traumatic experiences is different for everyone.
Everyone who experiences or witnesses a traumatic event has unique psychological, emotional, and physical responses. It is essential to be responsible for everyone and yourself. Discovering positive self-care and coping skills is vital in trauma therapy and healing. Remember that there is no right or wrong reaction. Self-care after trauma is what every individual needs to help them.