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How can individuals and families support someone who has experienced severe trauma?

Lanie Loosley

Trauma can have a severe impact on an individual's life, be it physical, mental or emotional. It's a daunting situation for the person involved and those around them. As an active user of social media, there are different ways you can support someone who has experienced severe trauma, and below are some of my thoughts on the matter.

Firstly, you can be a listening ear. Trauma can leave someone feeling isolated and vulnerable. It is always commendable to lend an ear to a friend, family, or even a stranger who wants to talk about their experience. Sometimes, all someone needs is to vent out their emotions and get validation for their feelings. You can reinforce their sense of willingness and strength.

Secondly, create a safe environment for them. It is vital to make sure that the individual feels comfortable and safe around you. Trauma sometimes affects people in ways that make them feel brittle or apprehensive whenever they encounter anything that reminds them of the traumatic event. You can help them by providing a safe space where they can feel at ease and re-assured.

Thirdly, offer practical support if and when possible. You can offer emotional support by being there for someone, but practical support can be even more vital. Practical support involves helping the individual in performing daily activities that they might find challenging or overwhelming. Tasks like cooking, cleaning, and running errands can be something one might have difficulty with in cases of severe trauma.

Fourthly, be patient. Recovery from trauma is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Healing from severe trauma is a journey, and everyone's journey is different. It could take some time for the person involved to recover and get back on their feet. Patience, therefore, is essential, and it is one of the most significant contributions that you could make.

Fifthly, encourage professional help seeking. There have been instances where the trauma is so severe that the individual requires professional assistance in order to heal and recover. It is okay to suggest to the individual that they seek professional help if you think it's necessary. However, please do so respectfully and offer your support in the process.

In conclusion, supporting someone who has experienced severe trauma is not an easy task, but it is one of the most crucial things that we can do for our loved ones, acquaintances or even strangers. The most important thing to remember is to be compassionate, empathetic, and understanding. Nobody should ever have to suffer through their traumatic experiences alone. With support from the community and their loved ones, it is possible to overcome even the most severe trauma.