Trauma impacts every survivor differently, and it can have a significant impact on their mental health. Survivors of trauma can experience a wide range of reactions to the event, from nightmares and flashbacks to depression, anxiety, and self-destructive behavior. In some cases, these reactions can last for years after the incident took place. Residing in a state that has seen unprecedented levels of natural disaster over the past few years has heightened interpersonal sensitivity towards those who are impacted by such events. It is important to remember that when we assist others, we often end up being assisted as well. The following is a list of ways you can provide effective support to survivors of trauma.
This is the first and most important piece of advice we can offer. Many trauma survivors are in a chronic state of hyperarousal, which makes it nearly impossible for them to calm down and relax. This is especially the case when they are triggered, which can happen in any environment and at any time. There is no quick fix or simple way to help them work through the aftermath of trauma. It is important to be patient, and to offer support without any expectation of how they will process their emotions. Let them know you are there for them, but also that you are not leaving no matter how long it takes. Trauma survivors often find themselves in a state of hypervigilance, always on the lookout for potential sources of danger. As a result, it is important that you are careful about what you say and do around them. Be mindful of the words you use, and try to avoid triggering them. If you notice that they are getting upset, or that they are losing focus, back off and try again at a later time.
They are doing their best to survive in a world that never promised to be kind. They have had to learn to be self-sufficient in a culture that constantly tells them they are not enough. They have had to overcome their fear of being punished for not conforming to the norm. Be patient with them and try not to judge them for their reactions to the trauma. Don’t dismiss their feelings, or tell them to get over it and move on. Allow them to feel safe enough to be honest with you, and if they want to talk about the incident that triggered their trauma, be open to hearing what they have to say.
Find them a support group or therapist that is trauma-informed. Trauma-informed therapists and support groups understand what a trauma survivor is going through, and know how best to help them navigate their feelings and emotions. They will understand how the trauma is impacting their daily life and what they need to do to move forward. There are also many online support groups available. These can be a great way to find support and meet others who are going through similar situations. Online support groups can be a good option for those who can’t get to a local support group.
Let them know they are not alone. There are millions of other people that are also going through what they are experiencing. Let them know that you are there for them, and that you are willing to help them navigate their feelings.
It can be helpful to check in with your loved one on a regular basis, and let them know you are there for them. Let them know you are there for them, and that you are willing to listen if they need to talk about their feelings. Be patient, and let them know that it’s not a race to get over their trauma. Let them know that you are there for them, and that you are willing to listen if they need to talk about their feelings.
This is something that each person has to go through in their own way and in their own time. Let them know that you are there for them, and that you are willing to listen if they need to talk about their feelings. Be patient, and let them know that it’s not a race to get over their trauma. Let them know that you are there for them, and that you are willing to listen if they need to talk about their feelings.
Their life is what they make of it. It is in their hands to decide how they react to a traumatic situation. You can help them by providing them with a safe space where they can talk about their feelings and heal. You can also help them find a trauma therapist or support group to talk to. By being patient, not judgmental and willing to check in with them regularly, you can help them gain control over their life again and move forward to a brighter future. Trauma happens when there is an overwhelming amount of stress, like a car accident or a natural disaster. These events can cause psychological trauma, which is when someone experiences a situation that is so scary or painful that it changes the way they think and feel.