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Nov 06 - 2024
How to Cope with Family Trauma?
How to Cope with Family Trauma?
Trauma is a deeply disturbing or distressing experience. This kind of pain can be physical, emotional, psychological, or even spiritual. Unfortunately, trauma can come from anyone, including our family. This can be in the form of abuse, neglect, abandonment, or even the death of a loved one. Family trauma can have a profound and lasting impact on the lives of those involved. It can lead to feelings of isolation, guilt, shame, and powerlessness.
Therefore, it's important to know how to cope if you've experienced family trauma. Here are 8 tips on how to cope with family trauma.
1. Be communicative.
Talk to your family about what you're going through. It can be difficult to open up about your trauma, but it's helpful to communicate with your family about what you're feeling. This will help them understand what you're going through and how they can help.
2. Avoid triggers.
There are certain things that can trigger trauma, and it's important to avoid them if possible. If you know what your triggers are, try to avoid them or at least have a plan in place to deal with them if they do come up.
3. Let your loved ones help you.
This does not have to be from your family, but it can also come from your friends. They can be a helpful source of support during times of trauma. Lean on them for help and support, and don't be afraid to ask for what you need.
4. Join a support group for trauma survivors.
There is strength in numbers. When you connect with others who have experienced similar trauma, you can share your experiences and learn from each other.
5. Educate yourself about your experience.
One way to cope with generational trauma is to educate yourself about your experience. This can help you make sense of what you’re going through and give you a sense of control. Try reading "Finding Life Beyond Trauma" by Victoria M. Follette, PhD, Jacqueline Pistorello, PhD, and Steven C. Hayes, PhD. This book is about living life well after a traumatic event. It uses the powerful techniques of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) to help you take a different approach to painful feelings and chart a more fulfilling course for a rich and meaningful life. To learn more about this, click here.
6. Find healthy outlets for your emotions.
It’s important to find healthy outlets for your emotions. This can include journaling, exercise, art, or any other activity that helps you express yourself. You can try this simple counseling game called “Be Heard in Your Herd”. This is a game that can also be used in family counseling. It incorporates solutions-focused interventions to help families focus on the positive aspects of their relationship, improve communication skills, and to help family members understand the needs of others. To learn more about this, click here.
7. Seek out positive role models.
Finally, seek out positive role models. These are people who have overcome their own trauma and can offer guidance and support.
8. Seek professional help.
If you're struggling to cope with trauma on your own, it's important to seek professional help. This can be in the form of therapy, medication, or both. Don't be afraid to reach out for help if you're struggling. A therapist can help you understand your experience and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
Trauma is a difficult thing to deal with, and it can be even more difficult when you're trying to cope with it on your own. While family can provide support during times of trauma, it can also cause trauma. If you're struggling to cope with trauma from your family, remember these tips to deal with it.
