Working Through Trauma: When "Get Over It" Just Won't Cut It

Many people experience trauma. However, not many know how to deal with the effects of trauma. What do you do with the thoughts that plague you, or the feelings of being trapped, or worse yet, the paralysis because of fear from trauma?

If you find that you are no longer able to do things that you used to do without thought, it may be time to explore the cause of the fear. For instance, if you were involved in a major car accident, you may find it hard to get in a car or drive again. This could be a result of the trauma of being in the accident. If you have experienced a tragic loss, you may find it difficult to develop lasting relationships for fear of losing someone you love and care for. Though these responses are “normal” (who can really define normal), they should not be lasting and they should not continue to impact your normal daily functioning.

Should I just "get over it?"

So often people say “get over it” and expect others to quickly move on from an experience without allowing time for the person to heal and process what they have experienced. This is not healthy. When we push past experiences and do not process our feelings, thoughts and emotions, we will normally find ourselves responding from a place of trauma; not driving, not being open to meaningful relationships, etc. However, if we allow ourselves the time and space to process, we can heal and move forward in a healthy way; attempting to drive again, being open to exploring new relationships with the knowledge that we could be involved in another accident or that we may lose another loved one. The truth is we can’t predict or prevent the future.

Trauma Does Not Have to Rob You of Your Happiness

There is no insulation to the horrible possibilities of life, BUT there is another truth as well. We can live life and endure hardships and still be happy and healthy. If we allow life to happen, we can experience the wonderful things that life brings; the birth of a child, marriage, family gatherings, and love, while accepting that life also brings accidents, death, and heartache.

Help is Available

Getting help is crucial if you have experienced trauma that you aren’t able to process. Reaching out to a professional can do wonders for you and the emotions and behaviors that follow trauma. There is no weakness in seeking help. In all other areas of life, we are admonished that there is strength in numbers, this is true when seeking help for yourself to process your trauma.

Things to Remember:

• Recognize how trauma has affected your interactions with life.

• Don’t try to “get over it,” but instead work through it.

• Reach out to professionals who can assist you in the process.

If you are ready to work through your trauma, at Mind Works Counseling Services, we are here for you.

Mind Works Counseling Services in Lubbock, Texas specializes in providing guidance and help to those who are working through their trauma. We have counselors available who will help.

Learn more about the Trauma Counseling services we offer.

Contact us to schedule an appointment or to let us answer any questions you may have.