The Importance of Self-care a Way to Deal with Trauma

Author: Cece Shatz, Doyenne of Relationship Building

Life can be challenging, and dealing with traumatic events can leave us feeling overwhelmed, alone, and struggling to cope. Traumatic experiences can involve anything from the death of a loved one to a physical or emotional assault. It can be difficult to know how to deal with trauma effectively, but self-care is one strategy that can help us heal and move forward. In this blog post, we'll explore the importance of self-care when dealing with trauma and some simple strategies you can use to take care of yourself during difficult times.

Understand the Importance of Self-Care

Self-care is often thought of as something we do when we have free time, but it's actually an essential part of maintaining mental and physical health. Self-care is particularly important when we're dealing with trauma because it can help to reduce stress and anxiety, improve our mood and provide a sense of control over our lives. It’s important to understand that the more we take care of ourselves, the more we have resources to stay resilient.

Establish a Self-care Routine

Establishing a regular self-care routine is crucial to maintaining our health and well-being. Creating a routine that involves activities that make us feel good, happy, or productive, can help to reduce stress and anxiety. Some simple self-care strategies that you can incorporate into your routine include exercise, healthy eating, taking breaks, spending time in nature, and connecting with friends and loved ones. It’s important to make sure that the activities you choose are relaxing and that you look forward to doing them.

Make Time for Relaxation

When dealing with trauma, it's essential to allow yourself time to relax and recharge. This is another important aspect of self-care. Taking a break and engaging in a relaxing activity is helpful in reducing stress. This might include reading a book, taking a bubble bath, listening to relaxing music, or practicing mindfulness. By taking time to relax, you'll be better equipped to cope with the challenges you face throughout the day.

Seek Professional Help

It’s important to note that self-care should not be considered a replacement for professional therapy. Traumatic experiences can have a profound impact on our mental health, and it may be necessary to seek help from a mental health professional or counselor to process and learn how to cope with those experiences in the most appropriate way. Self-care is a tool that can supplement professional therapy and help to create and maintain a balanced life.

Use Your Support System

Having a solid support system is crucial when dealing with trauma. If you don't have close friends or family members nearby, consider joining a support group with people that have gone through similar experiences. Having people to talk to and to lean on can help reduce stress and anxiety.

Self-care is an important tool when dealing with traumatic experiences. By creating a self-care routine, taking time to relax, seeking professional help when necessary, and using your support system, you can begin to move forward, heal, and rediscover your strength and power. Remember that self-care is not a selfish act. It’s an essential aspect of maintaining good mental and physical health. So, take care of yourself and know that it's essential, and with time, you will feel better.

Cece Shatz, Doyenne of Relationship Building, Divorce, Dating & Life Coach

Founder of New Stream Network: Non-Stop Entertainment - Network www.newstreamnetwork.com