We all face traumatic and adverse events.
And in order to navigate these traumatic and adverse situations, it is important to build resilience. Resilience is the quality of an object to bend, but not break, when pressure is applied.
If you find yourself searching for meaning in the wake of traumatic events, here are a few ways to build resilience and process what you have experienced.
Tactics for Building Resilience You Can Use Now
- Focus on your connections with others. Rather than isolating yourself, think about those in your life who are empathetic and trustworthy – people who will help validate what you are feeling. Reach out and find a way to connect, whether it’s for a socially distanced walk in the park or a conversation on Zoom or FaceTime.
- Practice mindfulness – start with just a few minutes. Engaging in mindfulness can help you to regulate your emotions and cope with feelings of worry. It also helps you focus your attention on the here and now. If you want to start a mindfulness practice, you may find this video series helpful.
- In the face of uncertainty, focus on what is known. If you find your mind and thoughts spiraling from focusing on what is NOT known, redirect your thought process to addressing known issues – ones you CAN control.
- Turn to trusted people and information sources. In situations such as this, misinformation is rampant. Make sure to seek out trusted, verified information sources – rather than social media.
Tips for Working Through Processing Trauma
- Stick with your usual routine. For many of us, especially children, routine can be a source of comfort and regularity.
- Turn to others. Family, friends, and clinicians are here to support you – open up about your experiences and feelings with trusted people in your life.
- Relax and recharge. Working through the emotions that follow a traumatic event is a marathon, not a sprint. Find ways to engage in what relaxes you, whether it’s going for a run, listening to music, or baking a cake.
- Have an open conversation with your child(ren). Let them express their thoughts and feelings with you; and, help them to keep things in perspective and focus on the future beyond the “here and now.”
- Seek help if you need it. Sheppard Pratt operates Psychiatric Urgent Care in two locations, which can quickly connect you to a therapist who can help you work through the emotions you are experiencing. You can also seek out support from your Employee Assistance Program (EAP).