Trauma is complex and can be a difficult topic to talk about. It is a harrowing experience that can have lasting effects. Trauma can occur in childhood such as abuse, sexual abuse, bullying, or death of parent or caregiver. Trauma can also occur as adult like an abusive marriage. Then there is trauma from disasters like hurricanes, fire, or an earthquake. Then there are the man-made disaster’s such as shootings, riots, war, or other violence.

Unhealed past trauma can severely impact your resiliency. When faced with a new perceived danger, a trauma survivor has limited choices like fight or freeze. Neither may be appropriate in the moment. If you think you have past trauma, please seek counseling and heal.

  We never know when trauma is going to show up. It is vital to have a plan in place to grow your resilience and learn how you will deal with trauma or disaster. While unbelievable at the moment, it is possible to build strength in the face of trauma. You know what they say, “If it doesn’t kill you, it will make you stronger.” A lot of truth to that saying.

We just had Hurricane Ian (Cat 5) blow through SWFL. It devastated much of coastal Lee County (and other counties as well). We stayed for the hurricane. We were well prepared. What I didn’t count on was the effect on my body. The winds were between 150-160+ mph, for hours and hours. I really felt my nerves unravel. The effects lasted for days with symptoms like foggy thinking, lethargy, and being unable to do tasks. I’m sure that part of that feeling was the collective emotion from the devastation which was massive.   Something to consider for the future.

Here are seven unique ways to do so:

Learn What Trauma Is

The first way to build resilience is by knowing what trauma is and what it means for you. This will help you understand your emotions and reactions better and those of the people around you.

Trauma is an emotional response to a terrible event like an accident, rape, or natural disaster. Immediately after the event, people experience things like shock and denial. There are long term issues including unpredictable emotions, flashbacks, strained relationships and even physical symptoms.  If a person doesn’t get help processing the event, they may progress into behaviors like drinking, drugs, too much TV/computer games and so forth. PTSD (post traumatic stress), bouts of anger, isolation or other non-adaptive behaviors may follow.

If you’ve experienced a trauma and are struggling, get counseling and heal. That process will help you build your resilience tool box.

Get to Know Yourself

Another way to build resilience is by learning new things about yourself, such as your strengths and weaknesses, coping skills, or even how your brain works. Simply try new things. Every time you dive into a new experience, you will learn something. That could be learning new physical strengths. It might be learning new ideas and ways to do things. We like all our modern conveniences. In a disaster, you won’t have them. What do you do? No power means no TV, no refrigerator, no cooking, no lights, no computer, no, no, no. What can you add to that list. Try camping. You have to do with a lot less and it might help you to consider what you would do without power. Challenge yourself.

Knowing who you are assisting you with dealing with difficult situations in the future.

Find a Support System

The third way to build resilience is by surrounding yourself with people who are good at supporting each other through tough times. It can also be helpful to have a group of friends who are all going through tough times like AAA or cancer support group. In a disaster, you will need your neighbors and then the people who come to help.

Be kind to everyone. These are hard times and you do not know what the person across from you is going through. We have gone down to Fort Myers Beach to support local businesses that are reopening. Consider leaving a bigger tip to your server. Just a thought.

Find Meaning

After a traumatic experience, it’s common to question your purpose in life. Finding meaning and a sense of connection can help you make sense of what happened and move forward. For example, you might volunteer for a worthy cause or spend time with loved ones.

 Practice Self-Care

It’s essential to mind your physical body and your emotional self too. If you’ve experienced a traumatic event, eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly will promote healing and reduce your overall stress level. Additionally, finding healthy ways to cope with your emotions, such as journaling, painting, or listening to music, will be effective. Also consider connecting with your spiritual group whether local or online. Don’t forget to talk to a professional if you are in need!

Increase Your flexibility and Perspectives on Life

Make an effort to be more flexible in your thinking and actions can help you adapt to demanding situations. Try to let go of perfectionism and rigidity and be open to trying new things.

Develop a Spiritual Practice

Spirituality can provide comfort and guidance during difficult times. If you don’t have a spiritual practice, consider exploring different religious or philosophical beliefs. You might also find solace in nature, art, or music.

By following these tips, you can start to build resilience and bounce back from trauma. Seek out social support, practice self-care, and find ways to increase your flexibility. Additionally, look for meaning in your experiences and develop a spiritual practice. With time and effort, you can begin to heal and move forward.

I would love to hear from you. How does this land with you?  I invite you to check out my ebook on Resilience. Or book a discovery call.

I wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving.