HEALING FROM TRAUMA
Trauma is an event or series of events that a person experiences which involves actual or threatened harm. Trauma places overwhelming demand on the body's systems and
can result in intense fear or helplessness. It overwhelms a person's ability to cope, leaving them feeling powerless.
Examples of traumatic events include: domestic violence, sexual assault or abuse, poverty, living in chronically stressful or unsafe situations, or witnessing violence.
A trauma response is the body's way of protecting you from danger. These feelings are often temporary, and commonly include:
- being watchful or on guard
- being overly anxious
- fearful
- distrusting
- unable to sleep or rest
- preoccupied
- feeling disconnected or numb
- forgetful
- guilt
-the need to avoid certain things.
TRAUMA RESPONSES ARE NORMAL REACTIONS TO ABNORMAL EVENTS.
Overactivity in the part of the brain that stores the sensory experiences of trauma acts as an alarm system when something represents danger.
Underactivity in the part of the brain that aids in the interpretation of all
your senses causes the brain to perceive danger even if it isn’t there.
Adrenaline increase can cause an increased heart rate, which can also make you feel nervous or on edge.
Cortisol increase can cause brain responses to slow, which can create problems with memory and concentration. Serotonin decrease can lead to depression, panic attacks and
flashbacks. Endogenous opioid increase can cause you to feel emotionally numb.
Calming activities might include:
place heavy blankets on your lap
drink water or herbal tea
chewing gum
rocking or steady swinging
strong hugs from safe people
soothing scents
Alerting activities might include:
holding ice
being in a cool room
open car windows
standing on your toes or balancing
listen to quick paced music
featherlight touches
aerobic exercise
singing loudly
Assisting Parents and Caregivers in Coping with Collective Traumas The National Child Traumatic Stress Network
Caring For Kids: What Parents Need to Know About Sexual Abuse
The National Child Traumatic Stress Network
Sesame Workshop
How to Help Kids and Teens Heal from Trauma Mental Health Center Kids
Mental Health & Recovery Services Board The Mental Health & Recovery Services Board of Allen, Auglaize, and Hardin Counties contracts with local agencies to fund a comprehensive behavioral health continuum of care based on community needs.
Activating Change Ending victimization, criminalization and incarceration of people with disabilities and Deaf people.
Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective
The Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective (BEAM) is a national 501c3organization that trains, funds, holds healing space and resources an international network of therapists, wellness practitioners, healing justice efforts and grassroots wellness initiatives to transform and support the well being and mental health of our most marginalized communities.
Your Life Your Voice Real Advice for Real Situations
The Trevor Project You deserve a welcoming world. And so do the people you care about. Here you can reach out to a counselor if you're struggling, find answers and info, and get the tools you need to help someone else.
Melanin and Mental Health Melanin & Mental Health® was born out of a desire to connect individuals with culturally competent clinicians committed to serving the mental health needs of Black & Latinx/Hispanic communities. We are committed to promoting the growth and healing of our communities through our website, online directory, and monthly events.
MeToo Movement Healing Toolkits
Ohio Dept of Developmental Disabilities Toolkit: Trauma Informed Care
Stress Management and Healthy Coping Workbook
Self Care Planning Guide for Individuals
Trauma is an event or series of events that a person experiences which involves actual or threatened harm. Trauma places overwhelming demand on the body's systems and can result in intense fear or helplessness. It overwhelms a person's ability to cope, often leaving them feeling powerless.
Examples of traumatic events include: domestic violence, sexual assault or abuse, poverty, living in chronically stressful or unsafe situations, or witnessing violence.
Below are additional resources for understanding trauma, its impact on the body, and ways to pursue healing.