6 Things To Do To Help You Cope With Traumatic Events
Traumatic events can be defined as generally significant and usually disturbing events in a person’s life. These types of experiences may include, but are not limited to: sexual abuse, natural disasters, war or violent crime, relationship problems/ adultery, and the death of a loved one.
For individuals who have experienced trauma in their lives, continued support is needed to cope with the event(s) that have occurred. Coping with traumatic events can be achieved through different methods. Overall, becoming aware of these coping strategies will help individuals overcome traumatic events by utilizing available resources. Here are 6 things you can try to help yourself cope with traumatic events.
Educate yourself
Educating yourself about traumatic events is an important first step towards coping with them. It might be helpful to learn more about the event(s) that have occurred, or talking to other trauma survivors can help too. If you are interested in learning more about the event(s), consider seeking out books, websites, self-help groups, and even support groups for people who have had similar experiences as you have had. Learning more about what has happened will put your mind at ease and allow you to cope better by becoming aware of resources that are available for you (if applicable).
Try exercise
Exercise is a very important coping strategy, as it can help improve one’s mood and ease negative feelings post traumatic events. Engaging in physical activity not only helps with post-traumatic stress but also many other issues such as sleep problems, anxiety, depression, pain management, blood pressure regulation, and control of the appetite (to name a few).
It does not matter what type of exercise you do – yoga or meditation postures; running; walking; playing tennis; bicycling—just make sure you are physically active for 20-30 minutes 4 to 5 times every week. Research has shown that exercise creates endorphins that produce positive emotions within the body (and mind), leaving you feeling better than before.
Learn Ways To Relax And Enjoy Yourself!
Being able to relax can be incredibly helpful in coping with traumatic events. It’s important that you find things that you enjoy doing that allow you to take time for yourself—relaxing, sleeping, taking a bath, listening to music, reading a book, etc. One of the best relaxation strategies is deep breathing which increases carbon dioxide levels in the bloodstream thus creating calmness within the body. Taking time off from work or school/homework also gives the mind some much-needed rest. Sometimes it takes some trial and error before you can identify what works for you as far as relaxing goes so try out different things until you
Express your feelings
Having the ability to express your feelings can help you cope with traumatic events. It might be helpful to write down how you feel about what has happened or talk with a counselor who is qualified in helping individuals cope with trauma. Being able to open up and express your feelings not only helps bring them out into the open where they cannot hurt you but also allows other people to provide support for you as well by being there for you emotionally. Another strategy that may work is sharing your feelings anonymously online. There are many websites today that make it possible to connect with others who have had similar experiences, which can be beneficial in coping with a traumatic event(s).
Get involved- help others
Helping others is a powerful coping strategy that often results from traumatic events. If you find it beneficial, consider volunteering or even doing something small for someone close to you who’s going through a tough time. Doing things for other people can be helpful as it takes your mind off of the feelings and emotions that have been experienced because of traumatic events. Keep in mind that giving to those in need will not only help others but also yourself so sharing the wealth may truly be rewarding on many levels.
Get professional support if necessary
If you are finding it hard to cope with what has happened, don’t be afraid to seek professional support. Whether it’s talking to a counselor or joining a support group for people who have had similar experiences, there are plenty of resources available for people who may be struggling with traumatic events. Talking with someone trained in this area is generally the best way to deal with overwhelming feelings associated with events like this one.
Conclusively, coping skills and strategies may be used to not only heal from past experiences but also find ways to deal with the future. Remember, there is no right or wrong way of copying—what’s important is finding what works best for you in order to get back on your feet again. Take your time and try at least one of the methods mentioned above, and you will surely get started on the path to being emotionally healthy again.
