How to Look After Yourself After a Traumatic Event

There are many circumstances that can turn our lives upside down and change our lives in a heartbeat. From having a baby to starting a new job, even getting married or going traveling. Some events change the course of our lives forever. However, not all of these events are things to be celebrated and nothing alters your life as dramatically as a traumatic event, such as one of the following:

- The death of a loved one

- Surviving an assault – click here if you’re looking for a lawyer for sex abuse cases

- Surviving an accident or traumatic event like a car accident

- Experiencing an illness

Sadly, the impact of a traumatic event can create overwhelming and uncontrollable distress that can make leading a normal life difficult. It can be difficult to know where to turn, or what to do next, especially if the quality of your life has been altered.

Here we’ll take a look at how you can look after yourself after a traumatic event.

Reach out to your doctor

 

It’s important to recognize that if your feelings of anxiety, distress or if your quality of life is suffering then you should reach out to your medical provider for help. This is particularly useful if you have no one to share your feelings and concerns with or you’re struggling to cope with daily life.

Remember: There is no shame in asking for help.

Give yourself time

 

After a traumatic event, you’ll undoubtedly want things to go back to normal as soon as possible.

However, it’s important to give yourself time to recover and not rush yourself.

Speak with others

 

If you were the victim of a traumatic event such as a natural disaster, car accident or something that involved others then speaking with other victims of the incident may help you come to terms with your feelings. Sharing thoughts, experiences and searching for answers and explanations can help.

Talk to your friends and family

 

Friends and family should be there to support you. However, if they’re eager for you to move on or simply “get over” what happened, then consider speaking with someone else.

Do normal things

 

In some instances, victims of traumatic events just want to experience a sense of normality and not be defined by what happened to them. So, consider enjoying activities that make you feel good, spending time with people who make you feel happy without talking about what happened to you.

It’s important to listen to your body and your mind during this difficult time, as everyone experiences a different kind of healing process. So, make sure you’re looking after yourself and putting your health and wellbeing first. And in doubt, reach out to your GP.