Trauma is the effect an event has on you and is like a wound that remains open and doesn’t heal. Many people believe that a traumatic incident is what happens to you. However, it is more about what happens inside you. In the mental health world, it has finally been given a name. That name is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). There are many coping strategies that people adopt to try and manage the trauma that is unhealthy including addictions, self-sabotage, procrastination, and underachieving, destructive relationships and behaviors, and disassociation amongst others. None of these are helpful in the long term. However, there is hope, healthy coping strategies, and healing available to you.
Five healthy coping strategies include:
1. Talking with others you feel comfortable with about how you feel and what you're going through. That can be a support group, a 12-step meeting, or a therapist. Isolation might feel comfortable at first, but it can lead to loneliness and possibly intensify PTSD symptoms.
2. Getting back to a daily routine even if you don’t feel like it. It can start with something simple and gradually grow, but consistency is key.
3. Incorporating mindfulness and calming activities into your daily routines such as meditation, guided imagery, walking, yoga, or breathing exercises.
4. Exercising regularly. Moving your body just 10-20 minutes a day can help your mind as well as your body.
5. Spending time in nature. It has a grounding effect that can be integrating and soothing. Some examples are the beach, a city park, a patch of grass and trees, a pier looking out over the water, etc. If you find yourself struggling, don’t be afraid to talk with a mental health professional such as myself. It's not uncommon for people to have these symptoms and to seek help from someone who is trained and has experience helping them find their way. RTT® is extremely effective in helping to overcome the effects of PTSD. Book a call with me to find out more.
Information contained herein is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any ailment or condition. Dr. Lisa Zaretsky. Ed.D, LCSW, LISW, C.Hyp makes no representation, express or implied, that information herein is applicable to any individual's particular situation. This information should not replace individual consultation with an appropriately qualified professional.
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