Post-traumatic growth refers to positive psychological changes that can occur after a traumatic event. While it may seem counterintuitive that flourishing could arise from trauma, research has shown that many individuals experience positive growth due to traumatic experiences. 

Many have experienced profound shifts in outlook and a sense of meaning in the thriving that follows enormous challenges and extreme adversity—positive change results in an expanded perspective that includes an appreciation for life and spiritual growth. 

What is trauma?

Trauma happens to many of us to varying degrees. While we may think of trauma as an extreme event -- such as war and physical assault -- the reality is that it is more common.  

Trauma is an experience that lives in our physiology rather than an external event. When our ability to respond to a person or situation becomes overwhelmed, often the result is trauma.

Especially when we are children, many events can activate our fight, flight and freeze survival responses -- but often, circumstances don't allow these to be enacted and completed. That thwarted energy can stay in our physiology and create dysregulation in our nervous system. We may over- or under-react to situations, or we might internalize reactions.

Trauma may stay with us in our physiology as a visceral memory, even if it isn't a more pronounced, declarative memory.

Common PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) symptoms include anxiety, depression, stress disorders, and various physical symptoms and disturbances that can last long after the event has passed. 

The emotional and psychological effects can also be devastating, leading to feelings of shame, guilt, and fear.

What is trauma therapy?

Trauma therapy helps individuals process their emotions, thoughts, and physiological experiences so that the life energy bound in the trauma reactions becomes available to nourish their life.

Holistic, somatic therapy is often an integral part of the healing process. It provides individuals the tools to get to know their bodies and resolve traumatic symptoms, moving on to live a whole and meaningful life. 

Trauma therapy is a journey. Courage, resilience, and hard work can ultimately lead to growth, the discovery of personal strength, and an improved quality of life. Working with a therapist can be a bridge to a brighter future.

What is post-traumatic growth?

Post-traumatic growth (PTG) is the positive transformation that can follow enduring challenging and stressful situations. These situations push an individual's coping skills to the limit, challenging their worldview and sense of self. 

Significant changes in personal perspectives and connections with oneself and the environment often occur, resulting in a meaningful and individualized growth experience.

Trauma therapy can facilitate a person moving from being overwhelmed by a traumatic experience to exploring joy and pleasure. Therapy supports connecting with a sense of aliveness and having a renewed zest for life.

Examples of post traumatic growth 

Individuals who have undergone post-traumatic growth have reported transformations in five key areas, including a heightened value for life, improved connections with others, increased inner fortitude, the discovery of fresh opportunities, and spiritual, existential, or philosophical shifts. Optimism goes along with a sense of new possibilities in life.

Trauma survivors often report feeling empowered by their experience and can reframe their pain as a source of strength.

An individual may become more empathic after experiencing trauma, leading to more meaningful and fulfilling relationships. Alternatively, individuals may find that their traumatic experience has given them a new sense of purpose or direction. And they may see that their capacity to experience pleasure has expanded.

The Importance of a trauma-informed therapist

It is helpful to work with a therapist trained in trauma therapy. A trauma-informed therapist can help individuals feel safe, validated, and supported during treatment.  

A trauma-informed therapist can also help individuals work through challenges such as fear of change, shame in facing aspects of the trauma, or difficulty embracing positive parts of themselves that may have become buried under challenges.

How to overcome challenges to post-traumatic growth

There are several strategies that individuals can use to overcome challenges to post-traumatic growth. 

Small, achievable goals

One approach is to focus on small, achievable goals. Trying to make sweeping changes all at once can be overwhelming. This one-step-at-a-time approach can help you build momentum over time.

Self-care

Another strategy is to practice self-care regularly. Self-care can include:

• Getting enough sleep.

• Eating a healthy diet.

• Exercising regularly.

• Engaging in activities that bring joy and fulfillment.

Self-care can help individuals feel more grounded and resilient in facing challenges.

Support system

Finally, a support system can be beneficial. Friends, family, or others who are healing from trauma might be part of a support system. This can provide a sense of connection, validation, and encouragement crucial to overcoming challenges and achieving growth.

Summary

Post-traumatic growth can take many forms. This includes personal growth, spiritual change and self-discovery, improved relationships, increased resilience and strength, and new perspectives. And increased physical wellness is also one of the positive outcomes a client will likely experience.

Trauma therapy can be a powerful tool for promoting post-traumatic growth. By helping individuals process their trauma, develop coping mechanisms, and identify how they have grown and changed, trauma therapy can help individuals move forward with their lives positively and meaningfully.

While there may be challenges along the way, with the help of a trauma-informed therapist and a supportive network, individuals can overcome these challenges and achieve growth after trauma.

Take the next step

Trauma therapy can help individuals reclaim their lives and discover the joy of living again. I’ve been a trauma therapist since 2009, and I'd be delighted to accompany you on your journey of healing.  Contact me today for your free 15 minute consultation..