How to Heal From Trauma That Still Hurts
Healing from trauma can be a challenging and emotional journey, but it is possible with the right tools and support. This step-by-step guide will provide you with practical tips and strategies on how to heal to take control of your healing process and move forward towards a brighter future.
Acknowledge and Validate Your Feelings.
The first step in healing from trauma is to acknowledge and validate your feelings. It’s important to understand that your feelings are valid and that it’s okay to feel the way you do. Trauma can cause a range of emotions, including anger, sadness, fear, and guilt. It’s important to allow yourself to feel these emotions and not suppress them. You can acknowledge your feelings by journaling, talking to a trusted friend or therapist, or simply taking time to reflect on your emotions. Remember, healing is a process and it’s okay to take things one step at a time.
You are human and it is okay to feel emotions. The best thing that you can do is acknowledge what you’re feeling and why you’re feeling it. A part of the process is processing your thoughts and feelings. If you haven’t already, you can start by journaling how you feel. Not only are you keeping track of your emotions and triggers, you can look back at your healing journey.
Minimize Your Triggers.
It is difficult to heal in the same environment or around the same people that caused you pain. It will take time to fully heal but until then, you should minimize the interactions with things that you remind you of your trauma. You shouldn’t shut out the world. However, until you get to the state that you can face your trauma with minimal effects, stay clear of what has hurt you.
For example, if you have gone through a breakup, you shouldn’t visit your ex’s social media page every chance that you get. Or, if you experienced childhood trauma from a certain relative, then you should stay clear of that relative until you are ready to face them. The last thing that you need is something that can send you into depression.
Seek Professional Help.
While self-care and support from loved ones can be helpful, seeking professional help is often necessary for healing from trauma. A therapist or counselor can provide a safe and supportive space for you to process your emotions and work through the trauma. They can also provide tools and techniques to help you cope with triggers and manage symptoms of trauma. It’s important to find a therapist who specializes in trauma and who you feel comfortable working with. Don’t be afraid to ask for referrals or to try out a few different therapists before finding the right fit for you. Remember, seeking professional help is a sign of strength and courage, not weakness.
Find a Healthy Way to Cope.
Learning how to heal is an on going process. As life goes on, we will be exposed to new things to heal from. As humans, we go through things and may have the idea to lean on drugs, alcohol, unhealthy foods, or sex to numb the pain. All four of those coping mechanisms can turn into bad habits that have other side effects. Instead, find a hobby that is healthy for your mind and body like boxing, drawing, writing, going to the gym, fishing, playing a sport, etc.. There will be days where it feels like you can’t get through your pain. Instead of leaning on bad habits, try a good habit instead.
Practice Self-Care and Self-Compassion.
Healing from trauma can be a long and difficult journey, and it’s important to prioritize self-care and self-compassion along the way. This can include things like getting enough sleep, eating well, exercising, and engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. It’s also important to be kind and patient with yourself, and to recognize that healing takes time. Don’t push yourself too hard or expect too much too soon. Remember that you are doing the best you can, and that every step forward is a step in the right direction.
Build a Support System.
Healing from trauma can be a challenging journey, and having a support system in place can make all the difference. This can include friends, family members, therapists, support groups, or any other individuals who can offer you emotional support and encouragement. It’s important to reach out to these individuals and let them know what you’re going through. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or to lean on others when you need it. Remember that healing is a team effort, and that you don’t have to go through it alone.
Work on Processing and Releasing Trauma.
One of the most important steps in healing from trauma is to work on processing and releasing it. This can involve talking about your experiences with a therapist or trusted friend, writing about your feelings and thoughts, or engaging in activities that help you express your emotions, such as art or music. It’s important to remember that everyone’s healing journey is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. Be patient with yourself and trust the process, and remember that healing is possible.
Work on Raising Your Vibrations
Vibrations are the energy that we carry within our body. There is an emotional scale that breaks down all of our emotions. The term raising your vibrations is a term used in the manifestation world. In simpler terms, it means to climb the emotional scale to be able to attract good things into your life. You raise them by doing things that make you happy, using affirmations, and thinking about things that make you happy. While healing, focusing on the good aspects of your life can be good for you.
