May 13, 2023

7 Ways to Cope with Trauma

Learn seven effective ways for dealing with trauma.

Marie Flynn

MS LPC

Coping with trauma can be challenging, but it is possible to build resilience and move forward with the help of effective coping skills.

Here are some coping skills for trauma:

  1. Seek Support: Talking to a trusted friend, family member, or therapist can provide a safe space to process your thoughts and feelings. It can also help you feel less alone and more connected to others.
  2. Practice Self-Care: Engage in activities that promote physical, emotional, and mental well-being, such as exercise, meditation, reading, or taking a warm bath. Taking care of yourself can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
  3. Write it Down: Journaling can be a helpful way to express your emotions and thoughts in a safe and private way. It can also help you identify patterns and triggers that may be contributing to your trauma symptoms.
  4. Grounding Techniques: Grounding techniques, such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or focusing on the present moment, can help you feel more centered and in control. These techniques can be helpful in managing flashbacks or dissociation.
  5. Find Meaning: Trauma can shake our beliefs and values, but finding meaning in the experience can help us make sense of it and move forward. This can include finding a purpose, engaging in meaningful activities, or connecting with others who have experienced similar traumas.
  6. Build Resilience: Building resilience involves developing skills and strategies that help us bounce back from adversity. This can include cultivating a positive mindset, practicing gratitude, or setting realistic goals.
  7. Seek Professional Help: Trauma can be complex and may require professional support to fully process and heal. A therapist or mental health professional can provide evidence-based treatments, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), to help you manage trauma symptoms and build resilience.

Remember that coping with trauma is a process, and it's okay to take it one day at a time. With time, effort, and support, it is possible to heal and move forward towards a brighter future.

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