Children often deal with trauma in different ways, and their coping mechanisms might not always be apparent or fully understood at the time of the traumatic event. Some common ways children may cope with trauma they can't fully comprehend include dissociation, numbing, avoidance, denial, or regression to earlier developmental stages.
When these unresolved traumas resurface later in life and cause difficulties in coping, it can be a challenging and overwhelming experience. Here are some pieces of advice for individuals struggling to cope with past trauma:
Seek professional help: Consider reaching out to a therapist or counselor experienced in trauma and childhood trauma specifically. A trained professional can provide guidance, support, and effective strategies to cope with the trauma and its lingering impact.
Practice self-compassion: Understand that struggling with trauma is not a sign of weakness. Be gentle with yourself and avoid self-blame. It takes courage to face and work through difficult emotions.
Build a support network: Surround yourself with supportive and understanding individuals who can listen without judgment and offer empathy. Joining support groups or talking to close friends and family can provide a sense of connection and validation.
Educate yourself about trauma: Learn about trauma and its effects to gain a better understanding of what you're experiencing. Recognize that trauma reactions are normal responses to abnormal events.
Practice grounding techniques: When overwhelming emotions arise, try grounding exercises to bring yourself back to the present moment. Techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, or using your senses to focus on your surroundings can be helpful.
Create a safe environment: If possible, create a safe and comfortable space where you can feel secure and reduce triggers that may exacerbate your distress.
Engage in self-care: Prioritize self-care activities that promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. This might include exercise, hobbies, spending time in nature, or engaging in creative pursuits.
Allow yourself to process emotions: It's essential to acknowledge and process the emotions related to the trauma. Expressing feelings through writing, art, or talking to a trusted person can be cathartic.
Set boundaries: Respect your boundaries and communicate your needs clearly to others. It's okay to say "no" if you feel overwhelmed or triggered.
Consider EMDR therapy: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a therapeutic approach that can be particularly helpful for processing traumatic memories.
Remember, healing from trauma is a journey, and there is no set timeline for recovery. It's essential to be patient with yourself and give yourself the time and space needed to heal. If you find it challenging to cope on your own, don't hesitate to seek professional support, as trained therapists can offer valuable guidance in your healing process.