Healing After Traumatic Events: Post-Traumatic Growth

What is post-traumatic growth? Post Traumatic Growth of PTG is defined as a “positive psychological changes experienced as a result of the struggle with trauma or highly challenging situations” (Tedeschi & Calhound , 1995) . PTG may feature positive changes in self-perception, interpersonal relationships and philosophy of life, leading to increased self-awareness and self-confidence, a more open attitude towards others, a greater appreciation of life and the discovering of new possibilities according to the Clinical Journal of Neuropsychiatry (Dec.2022).  How can resilience look like for survivors? Jim Rendon writes about the five domains of PTG in his book Upside. In this blog we will discuss three of the five domains of PTG.

For survivors of trauma PTG growth can be seen in the following ways

1.        Personal strength: able to handle life challenges, increased maturity and wisdom

 

2.        Closer relationships: ability to seek and accept support from community or individuals. Increase sense of belonging if these relationships are supportive and healing post traumatic event

 

3.        Greater appreciation for life: more gratitude, hope and kindness may increase because of overcoming traumatic event.

Overcoming and healing from trauma can be challenging. However, with support and guidance it is possible to heal from trauma. Therapy can help with this process by proving a safe space to process and help you develop coping skills. Increasing ones coping skills to handle challenges can be the first step. Moreover, therapy can increase space for reflection and introspection. Therapy may help with being able to see the “bigger picture” and being able to practice awareness of what is working or what is positive. Healing from Trauma may look like being able to have hope and increased gratitude after surviving trauma.

Part of the healing process from trauma may also involve rebuilding relationships or starting new ones. Ability to seek healthy relationships that can lead to sense of belonging and feeling less isolation. Isolation if often something trauma survivors experience. Increased ability to ask for support and accept support from others can be a sign of PTG (Post Traumatic Growth).

Another part of PTG can include a greater appreciation for life and contentment. Once a person can overcome and heal from trauma there is often more room for gratitude as trauma is no longer taking central stage. A person can move from barely surviving to being able to thrive and be more hopeful.

Healing from trauma can take time. But you are not alone. Therapy can help you in this process by providing you strategies to cope with symptoms of depression, anxiety and PTSD. Beyond managing symptoms therapy can also help with PTG and truly grow past trauma.  If you are ready to start your healing journey contact us (909) 206-4613 or at info@pattymunoztherapy.com for your free 15 minute consultation. We offer virtual therapy throughout California and in person in Rancho Cucamonga, CA.