Trauma - Tips

In case of trauma, we often think of a one-time dramatic event. That's what we call shock trauma.

However, many of us have to deal with more complex forms of trauma that arise in our childhood. We call it developmental trauma.

Take yourself seriously if you notice that you are suffering from your father's negative behavior, your self-sacrificing mother or the boundless behavior of your children.

There is a lot of change possible! Find a therapist where you feel safe enough.

Do you take the first step?

Do you suffer from trauma and could you use some support?
A therapist or counsellor can help you.

You suffer from an intense experience in the past? Does it come back daily, also after 6 months?

Try EMDR. In 90% of the cases, the trauma becomes emotinally less loaded....

Connect with what supported you during or after the traumatic event....

Often we keep on confirming ourselves in thinking and talking about the trauma...

It helps a lot to connect with the experiences that were positive around the traumatic event: the nice lady that took your hand, the bird you heard whistling, or the foot you were still able to move...

The body has also a memory. Trauma leaves its traces there.
Body oriented therapy, like Somatic Experiencing, can be very useful.

Don't escape your trauma by using alcohol or drugs. It might seem like a way out and it seems like it makes you feel better. But it is not a solution.

On top of it, it might create an extra problem: an alcohol/drug addiction
Also escaping your traumatic feelings by emotional eating is not a solution.

Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) can really help. It was developed and trialed extensively with US war veterans. These veterans had been struggling for decades and most of them found relief using EFT.

EFT uses acupressure points on your face and upper body and could be called acupuncture for mental health and well-being - no needles involved. It targets our blocked energy system which results in feeling better and thinking more clearly. The technique involves tapping on your body, thereby connecting mind, body and emotions.

You can learn this technique online, but to deal with trauma you are best to find a therapist trained in this modality.