Overcoming Trauma: From Inside Out
No one prepares someone for trauma, emotionally or physically. When I woke up from my coma, I wasn’t only dealing with physical injuries. I was facing something arguably even harder–the emotional impact.
My life had flipped upside down. I couldn’t even dress myself. Heck, I didn’t know which way was right or left. I had to face the reality that things might never be the same again. That realization was overwhelming.
Healing isn’t just about the body. A collaborative effort between mind and heart is key to recovery. Then, healing can begin.
So, how does one overcome the emotional impact of trauma? How does the healing process start from the inside out?
Emotional Weight of Trauma
At first, I tried to push through the pain, physically and emotionally. I told myself I just needed to be strong, that I’d made it through so much already. “I’m superwoman.” But the more I ignored my emotions, the heavier they became.
It wasn’t until I allowed myself to truly process the trauma I had endured that I began to heal.
Here’s what I learned:
Steps to Heal from the Emotional Impact of Trauma
- Acknowledge Emotions
- I had to allow myself to feel the sorrow over the life I had lost.
- I accepted to stop thinking of the life of me running, teaching and coaching all day, and doing whatever productive thing I could in my free time.
- I had to admit my emotions through a journal or a trusted companion. I had to stop dealing with issues on my own. Even journaling helped me realize the emotions I felt.
- Use the Time as an Acquaintance
- Healing has no short-cut. Some days, I was strong and independent. Others, I struggled. Both go hand-in-hand as part of the journey. Without strength and struggle, there’s no road to recovery.
- “Give it time.” The worst thing to hear, especially when I had no patience. Time has a definitive end date. I just couldn’t know the exact measurements–the final date.
- Find a Place to Process
- I had to talk to someone trustworthy and uplifting—a friend, a therapist, or a support group. No one should do this alone.
- Journal thoughts down. It can also help release the weight of unspoken emotions.
- Focus on What’s Within Power
- Trauma can leave one feeling powerless, but, ironically, I let it give me power.
- The small steps help regain confidence and control–pattience.
Remember This
No one enduring trauma is weak. I wish I believed I was not broken. We are healing.
Healing is possible with time–one step, one moment.