Processing lingering trauma from your childhood can take time, and it requires proper support. This guide will help you understand how to find help and how to move forward into the future.
Talk to Professionals
Childhood trauma is often complex and talking to a mental health professional could help you have a better understanding of what happened and how it continues to affect your life. Your mental health professional will teach you about healthy coping strategies, and he or she can help you identify goals for your next chapter. Depending on the type of trauma you experienced, you might consider seeing a counselor, psychologist, or psychiatrist. If you have been sexually abused, you may wish to see a professional who specializes in treating patients who have gone through this. Lawmakers in a number of states have proposed expanding the time frame that survivors of sexual abuse can take legal action against their abusers. You can explore possible legal options with your counselor if you wish.
Building a Support Network
Building a support network could enable you to recover from childhood trauma more easily and more completely. Isolating yourself and trying to heal alone could make the situation worse. To build a support network, you may want to consider attending local support groups for trauma survivors in your area. You could also choose to join an online support group as well. If you have family and friends who are positive and encouraging, reach out to them on a regular basis. Talk on the phone or on video chat and try to meet them in person as often as possible. This will help you build a sense of community and belonging that may help you through the healing process. By reaching out to others, you might discover that you can redefine yourself in the present, and the burden of the past may feel lighter.
Move Forward
Moving beyond childhood trauma requires you to reconstruct your self-esteem and sense of self-worth. You can develop the skills to do this in therapy sessions, and it can help to keep a journal of your thoughts. To build self-esteem and self-worth after trauma, experts suggest keeping a gratitude journal and giving back to others. You may want to volunteer at a shelter or at an after-school program. Volunteering allows you to make a positive difference in other people’s lives, and it could help you feel needed and valued.
Don’t be afraid to reach out for help when dealing with childhood trauma. You are not alone, and you will get through this. In addition to the tips in this guide, you can consult your doctor for personalized advice and information about local resources.
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