Recovering from Physical and Emotional Trauma

Most people have faced some significant physical and emotional trauma. Trauma comes in many forms and can be physical or emotional trauma. Accidents, surgery, sexual assault, physical abuse, wartime, and all forms of violence are examples of traumatic events. However, abandonment, neglect, ridicule, and persecution can also be major traumatic experiences.

Support from family, friends, and others can play an important role in recovering from the emotional impact of traumatic experiences. It’s unfortunate, but not everyone has the support they need, especially when a physical and emotional trauma occurs within the family or involves someone they trusted.

Trauma affects people in many different ways. Some people may experience excessive worry, anxiety, irritability, difficulty sleeping, depression, intrusive thoughts, or other emotional and physical symptoms. Trauma can also affect how your body responds to stress. This is one of the reasons long-term or unresolved physical and emotional trauma can influence your overall health and well-being.

Understanding Trauma

Supporting Yourself After Trauma

• Flower Essences are plant remedies designed to help individuals address the emotional side of their overall health. Flower Essences were originally developed by Dr. Bach, and they are liquid extracts that are used to address issues of emotional well-being. You can view Nature’s Sunshine Flower Essences. My favorite for any type of trauma is Distress Remedy.
• Essential oils of Frankincense, Myrrh, and Amber are some of my favorites to use during stressful or emotionally difficult times. You can diffuse them or make a properly diluted roll-on to apply to the back of the neck or pulse points.
• Gut Health can also be impacted by physical and emotional traumas due to the body’s nervous system response. Teas, like Peppermint and Chamomile Tea, may be helpful. Peppermint helps with bloating and gas. Chamomile helps calm and relax you.
• Immune System Health is also impacted by trauma. Support a healthy immune system by making sure you get enough sleep and taking time to relax. Gentle exercise like walking and deep breathing can also help.
• Healthy Habits are also very important for promoting overall health, physically as well as emotionally. Stay hydrated and eat whole foods, including fruit, vegetables, whole grains, protein, and healthy fats. Also make sure you take some time for daily movement. Try to avoid simple carbohydrates like candy, cookies, cakes, pies, and alcohol.

Emotional health and trauma are nothing to be overlooked. Natural approaches and self-care can provide support, but they aren’t a substitute for professional care when it is needed. BetterHelp offers access to licensed therapists online. I have also found Dr. Bradley Nelson’s Emotion Code interesting as an alternative approach to emotional wellness. He offers a free starter kit if you’d like to explore it.

Recovering from a physical and emotional trauma is more than focusing on positive thinking, pushing your emotions aside, or burying them. It’s about self-care and support from people you trust who can help. Focusing on supporting a healthy nervous system and managing stress are two ways you can support self-care. Learn more about Supporting Your Nervous System.

Some people who experience trauma develop Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Learn more about the signs of PTSD and approaches used to support recovery in PTSD: Recovering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

This article was originally published as part of the Sunshine Sharing newsletter series.
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