5 Essential Steps: How Do You Heal from Trauma?

Welcome to the Aura Institute, where we offer advanced trauma-informed training so that you can have the tools to transform the lives of those affected by trauma.

Our curriculum is accredited for continuing education by prestigious organizations like the APA and Board of Nurses, ensuring practitioners receive top-notch training and credentials.

Contact us at info@aurainstitute.org or (424) 400-3048 to begin your journey as a certified trauma practitioner and make a positive impact in trauma care.

Five Key Principles: How to Recover from Trauma?

Key Points Covered in This Article:

• Trauma and Its Consequences
• Essential Principles for Healing Trauma
• Techniques for Trauma Recovery
• The Role of Professional Help in Trauma Recovery
• Frequently Asked Questions about Healing from Trauma

Life is fraught with events that can leave a lasting impact on our mental health. Surviving distressing occurrences is one thing; however, the true challenge lies in recovering and healing from them. How do you heal from trauma? It is a journey with numerous paths, demanding time, patience, self-care, and often professional assistance. In this article, we present five essential steps towards trauma recovery.

Trauma and Its Consequences

Unfortunately, trauma is not a rare occurrence. According to the National Council for Behavioral Health, nearly 70% of people in the United States have experienced some form of trauma in their lifetime.

"Trauma occurs as a response to a distressing or life-threatening event, leaving individuals feeling helpless, spiritually empty, or terrified."

The effects may vary, from intrusive memories and anxiety to profound changes in a person's thoughts and mood.

Essential Principles for Healing Trauma

The journey of healing from trauma is as individual as the people who embark on it. However, certain shared principles can guide us through this process:

1. Understanding and Acknowledging Trauma: Understand that trauma is not a sign of weakness but a normal reaction to abnormal circumstances.

2. Self-Care: Focus on a healthy lifestyle, balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep.

3. Support Network: Surround yourself with supportive people, be it friends, family, or support groups.

4. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing can help manage trauma symptoms.

5. Professional Help: Seek professional help if symptoms persist or worsen over time.

Techniques for Trauma Recovery

To navigate the path to trauma recovery, you can employ several healing techniques. At the heart of every technique is the principle of reconnection—to one's body, one's self, the outside world, and others.

"Through reconnection, trauma survivors can become emotionally present in their lives and reclaim their sense of agency and control."

These techniques include:

• Body-Based Practices: Think body-based therapies like yoga, massage, and Tai Chi. They facilitate reconnection with the body and help traumatised individuals regain a sense of control.

• Expressive Therapy: This involves the use of music, art, or dance as healing modalities.

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A proven technique that assists in restructuring harmful thought patterns.

The Role of Professional Help in Trauma Recovery

Do not hesitate to seek professional help in your healing journey. Trained clinicians can provide specialised guidance, including trauma-focused therapies like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), or a Trauma-Informed Care certification program.

Frequently Asked Questions about Healing from Trauma

1. Is it normal to struggle with daily activities after experiencing trauma?Yes, it is normal to experience difficulties in daily life after a traumatic event. If these difficulties persist or significantly affect your ability to function, seek professional assistance.

2. Does trauma ever fully heal?Everyone's healing process is different. Some people can fully heal from trauma, while others may experience lingering effects. However, everyone can make progress with time and appropriate support.

3. What role can friends and family play in trauma recovery?A strong support network is an integral part of trauma recovery. Loved ones can provide emotional support, lend a listening ear, encourage healthy habits, and facilitate professional help if needed.

Remember, while the process to "heal from trauma" can be challenging, it is far from impossible. By understanding and acknowledging your trauma, taking care of yourself, using various healing techniques, and perhaps seeking professional help, you can regain control of your life and embark on a journey towards a healthier, happier self. Always remember, healing is not just possible—it's within your reach.

Ready to start your career as a trauma informed care practitioner? Contact us at info@aurainstitute.org or (424) 400-3048 to begin your journey as a certified trauma practitioner and make a positive impact in trauma care.