Trauma

In our support group, we discuss common emotions we experience in our grief. We understand that everyone's grief is unique and our emotions may occur in different orders or with varying degrees of intensity and there is no "right" or "wrong" way to feel. 

About Trauma

By Claigh H. Jensen LDS Family Services https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/ensign/2008/02/about-trauma?lang=eng 

People may experience circumstances so distressing that normal coping skills are not adequate. Such incidents might include abandonment, abuse, war, environmental disaster, an untimely death, severe illness, and many others. 

Research suggests that: an estimated 70 percent of adults in the United States have experienced a traumatic event at least once in their lives, and up to 20 percent of these people later develop posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). An estimated 5 percent of Americans—more than 13 million people—have PTSD at any given time.

While no one is excluded from the trials and sufferings of this life, people may believe if they are strong enough or faithful enough, they should be able to move on with their lives after a traumatic event. Most people who experience trauma are able to return to leading a normal life, but they typically go through an adjustment period first.

Symptoms of Trauma

The stress caused by trauma can affect all aspects of a person’s life, including mental, emotional, and physical well-being.3 It is important to tell your doctor of any traumatic events you or your loved ones may have experienced. The following may be symptoms of trauma:

Discussion

• Have you experienced symptoms of trauma? What has it been like for you?

• How has trauma affected your relationships with others? 

Helps

• Spend extra time together. Gathering as a family away from the demands of work, school, and other responsibilities communicates love, commitment, and priority. Simple things such as smiles and hugs give assurance and are helpful when breaking through a sense of isolation.

• Be patient and gentle. Encourage, but do not rush, the healing process.

• Use good judgment when seeking professional help. Family Services and other professional resources may help you or your loved one successfully work through the experience to a higher level of functioning. 

• Understand that everyone experiences traumatic events differently. In fact, some might experience an event as traumatic, while others may have only felt uncomfortable. For this reason, remember not to compare your experience to others’ or use your experience as the standard experience. https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/liahona/2023/09/06-after-trauma-building-resilience-and-embracing-healing 

Post-Traumatic Growth

Research has found that after trauma, people often experience what has been labeled “post-traumatic growth.” Post-traumatic growth is demonstrated by a person finding increased strength after a traumatic experience, like improved relationships, greater appreciation for life or certain qualities of life, or an increased awareness of possibilities of life. https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/liahona/2023/09/06-after-trauma-building-resilience-and-embracing-healing

“He that is faithful in tribulation, the reward of the same is greater in the kingdom of heaven. Ye cannot behold with your natural eyes, for the present time, the design of your God concerning those things which shall come hereafter, and the glory which shall follow after much tribulation. For after much tribulation come the blessings.”  (D&C 58:2-4)

“The cavity which suffering carves into our souls will one day also be the receptacle of joy.” –Neal A. Maxwell 

“No pain that we suffer, no trial that we experience is wasted. It ministers to our education. … All … that we [patiently] endure … builds up our characters, purifies our hearts, expands our souls, and makes us more tender and charitable. … It is through sorrow and suffering, toil and tribulation, that we gain the education that we come here to acquire and which will make us more like our [heavenly parents].” -Orson F. Whitney 

Discussion

• What are some things that have helped you cope with effects of trauma?

• Have you noticed any personal growth as a result of what you’ve been through? If so, in what ways?  

Self-Care

Exercise regularly. Physical activity is vital for both physical and mental health. If needed, start with gentle forms of exercise (walking, stretching). Here are some suggestions:

• Identify specific, achievable goals for physical activity, such as walking a certain distance or exercising for a set amount of time each day.

• Make It a Routine: Schedule regular times for exercise, just as you would for other important activities.

• Choose Activities You Enjoy: Engage in activities that you find fun and fulfilling, such as walking, biking, swimming, or playing sports.

• Start Small: Begin with manageable amounts of exercise and gradually increase the intensity and duration as you build stamina.

• Involve Others: Exercise with family, friends, or community groups to stay motivated and make it a social experience.

• Use Available Resources: Take advantage of local parks, trails, or fitness facilities to add variety to your routine.

• Stay Consistent: Even on busy days, try to fit in some form of physical activity, like stretching or a short walk.

More Self-Care Ideas 

Journal Prompts

• What is one emotion you've been feeling lately that you find particularly challenging to navigate? Explore why you think that is. 

• Write about a lesson or value you learned from your loved one that continues to influence you.

• If you could have one more conversation with your loved one, what would you want to say or ask?