Post-Traumatic Growth: 6 Ways to Start Healing


Life can be tough, and when things don’t go as planned, it’s easy to feel like you’re drowning.  Traumatic experiences can have a significant impact on our mental and emotional health but don’t worry, there is hope. Research has shown that it’s crucial to address past traumas to boost our overall well-being and happiness. If we don’t deal with our emotional pain, it can lead to physical symptoms and affect our mental health. However, when we confront and work through our trauma, we can let go of our emotional baggage and develop resilience. 

In this article, we’ll share 6 ways to help you start your healing journey and achieve post-traumatic growth.

Photo by Karolina Grabowska on Pexels.com

1. Acknowledge Your Trauma

Let’s face it, acknowledging trauma is about as fun as going to the dentist, but it’s a necessary evil. Trying to sweep traumatic experiences under the rug is like trying to sweep an elephant under a doormat, it’s just not going to happen. Take the first step in healing by acknowledging the elephant in the room and accepting that it’s there.  It may be uncomfortable, but it’ll be worth it in the end.

2. Seek Professional Help

Why go through the pain of healing alone when you can have a trusty sidekick by your side?  Seeking professional help, like a therapist or counselor, can be your Batman to your Robin, providing you with the tools and support you need to conquer your trauma. They’re like your own personal Yoda, guiding you through the darkness and towards the light. So don’t hesitate to reach out for help, because even superheroes need a little assistance sometimes.

3. Practice Self-Care

Let’s be real, taking care of yourself is not selfish, it’s essential.  Healing from trauma can be emotionally draining, so it’s crucial to prioritize your mental and emotional health.  Spend time doing things that bring you happiness and fulfillment, like hiking, dancing, or indulging in a pint of ice cream.  Remember, self-care is not a luxury, it’s a necessity for healing and overall well-being.

4. Connect with Others

When it comes to healing from trauma, it’s important to remember that humans aren’t meant to go it alone. We’re social creatures, and having a supportive community can make all the difference in the world.   Plus, who wants to go through the ups and downs of healing without some good company?  Talking about your trauma with people who understand can help you feel less isolated and alone.  It’s like finding someone else who also thinks anchovies on pizza are gross—you realize you’re not alone in your opinion. 

Hearing stories from others who have successfully navigated their healing journey can also provide hope and inspiration.  It’s like cheering on your teammates as you work towards a common goal.

5. Consider Alternative Healing Methods

Alright, listen up folks! You may have heard about some funky ways to heal from trauma, and we’re here to tell you, they’re not all bogus. Alternative healing methods like acupuncture, yoga, or meditation can be the real deal when it comes to reducing stress and improving your inner peace.  Plus, who doesn’t love some good ole’ stretching and deep breathing?  And let’s not forget about everyone’s favorite controversial herb—cannabis. Now, we’re not saying it’s a cure-all, but some folks have found it helpful in managing their trauma symptoms.  Just be sure to consult with a healthcare professional and use it responsibly. Don’t go getting all ‘Cheech and Chong’ on us now. Cannabis has even been found to be useful for migraines! Check out what Veriheal has to say on the topic:

“Luckily, other more holistic and natural approaches may hold a key in providing relief to those who suffer from these debilitating headaches and their accompanying symptoms. Cannabis is one of those natural options. According to a recent study by researchers at Washington State University, inhaled cannabis could be the medicine migraine sufferers have been waiting for.”

6. Practice Gratitude

Ah, gratitude, what a fascinating concept.  You see, by focusing on the positive aspects of our lives, we can actually rewire our brains to be more optimistic and resilient. It’s like a cosmic shift in our thinking patterns.  One way to practice gratitude is through a gratitude journal. By writing down what we’re thankful for each day, we start to notice the little things that make life so wonderful. It’s like a cosmic reminder of all the good things in our lives.  Another way to practice gratitude is by taking a few minutes each day to reflect on what we’re thankful for. It’s like a cosmic meditation on all the blessings in our lives.

So, whether you’re writing in your gratitude journal or taking a moment to reflect, remember that gratitude is a cosmic force for positivity and resilience.

Conclusion

Listen—healing from trauma is a tough road, but don’t worry—you got this.  First things first, you need to acknowledge that trauma exists. There’s no hiding from it. Then, it’s time to call in the professionals—therapists, counselors, all that good stuff.  You gotta take care of yourself, too. Get some exercise, meditate, and spend time with your favorite people. 

It all matters!

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