How to manage a setback in healing your trauma

Many of our therapists are trauma treatment specialists, and one thing that is often seen by them are set backs in the healing process from trauma. Whether it stems from a recent personal crisis or upheaval of one’s life routine, these things can feel like your entire world is falling apart again. What is critical is to remember that setbacks are normal and can actually be a part of the healing experience. When giving yourself a little grace and continued hopeful effort, you will see yourself finding yourself on the healing journey again. 

How to manage a setback in healing trauma?

• Allow yourself to feel it. 

In any setback of life, it is important to feel and acknowledge the emotions that come with it. Disappointment, shame, anger, and confusion are common emotions to have when you find yourself falling backwards from progress. While some of the emotional experiences you may be having are similar to what you went through in the past, they may provide you with useful information on what areas of yourself may need further attention. Give yourself some grace in having these emotions, and share your observations with your therapist. 

• Reflect & Begin Again

Spending time reflecting to understanding how the circumstances of this event may help you to recognize patterns or poor boundaries that you may need to examine and reset your life. Try being curious and open to observing the situation without preexisting assumptions or judgements so you can gain these insights. This new level of self awareness can be powerful and jumpstart your again on a healthy, healing path. 

• Connect with Supports

Healing from a trauma requires support in all forms. Friends, family, or professional counselors give you the opportunity to receive comfort and validation in your healing journey. Sharing your struggles and seeking support is a strength, not a weakness. Speaking with these confidants can provide you with new awareness, compassion, and encouragement during a difficult time. 

• Decide on changes for a better future

In this setback, you may find out learning new coping skills is just what you need to manage similar situations in the future. Perhaps being more consistent in your mindfulness practices is exactly what you need, or letting go of unhealthy, toxic people in your life will give you future safety. This setback can reinvigorate your commitment to your wellness practices, and boundaries in your life!

• A time for Self-Compassion & Recognition

In this moment, it is important to practice self compassion and frame your inner voice in a compassionate, encouraging way. It is normal to struggle at times in life and your inner voice should not be shaming or criticizing yourself right now. Recognize the gains you have made in your life up to this point. This will help you to foster a positive growth mindset and continue to acknowledge to yourself that healing is an ongoing process with its own sets of ups and down. 

The healing journey can be a winding road of ups and downs, but with supportive outlets and commitment to healing you will find your way beyond the past and into your future. Continue the journey with one of our skilled clinicians, you can find a well matching therapist for you by visiting our clinicians page.