Helping Victims of Trauma

Trauma is a life event or sudden change in our life that has the potential to overwhelm us. The death of a spouse, job loss, sexual abuse, abandonment, devastation due to storms or fire, are a few sudden changes in our lives that create an overwhelming presence too difficult to cope with alone.

Trauma may impact us with a myriad of symptoms. You may have trouble sleeping, have trouble concentrating, feel detached or in a daze. When you or someone you love begins to deal with the impact of a heartbreaking event, there are some things to help.

• Understand that it is normal to feel the way you do at this time.
• Crying is normal and healthy.
• Telling the story of the event relieves the stress of the trauma.
• Maintain close bonds with caring people.
• Begin each day with 5 minutes of deep, relaxed breathing.
• It is OK to ask for help.
• Be Patient.

When you are helping others:

• Never ask “why” they feel the way they do.
• Do not attempt to solve a problem, just listen.
• Avoid needless questioning for details of your own curiosity, let them tell their story. They need to be heard
• Avoid telling your own war stories.
• Avoid statements that minimize their feelings.
• Avoid statements of “you should”.

The good news about recovering from trauma is that it is possible and can lead to personal growth that otherwise might not have occurred.

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