No matter what the experience is or why it happened, sharing a traumatic event is a vital step towards healing and recovery.
Tragedy can happen to anyone and it can come in many forms. Sometimes it is a painful experience that was endured as a child, such as physical or sexual abuse. Sometimes it is the loss of a loved one, such as a child, parent or spouse. Personal tragedies can be accidental or the direct result of poor choices.
Often times, when someone is the victim of a traumatic event, it can feel like an impossible feat to even talk about it. Shame and guilt are common feelings that accompany painful experiences like rape or molestation, especially if these horrific events took place during childhood. It is not uncommon for the victim to blame himself or herself for what happened and this can lead to a lifetime of silent and internal struggle.
Although it can be very difficult to discuss, sharing a traumatic event is important for many reasons.
Firstly, the pain cannot be addressed unless we admit it is there. Secondly, putting words to the experience can often take away some of the power that it has held over the victim. And lastly, the traumatic event that has caused so much grief is usually of such a caliber that it cannot be dealt with on ones self and professional help is needed.
When a person is ready to begin sharing a traumatic event it is important to decide with whom it is best to share. Some suggest a counselor, psychologist, psychiatrist or other medical professional. Some prefer to share their experience with a religious leader, such as a priest, or spiritual guide, like a 12 Step sponsor. Others may choose to begin sharing a traumatic event by discussing it with a trusted friend or loved one because this feels safer and more familiar. Whomever the traumatic event is shared with, talking about it and taking the right steps to seek help are crucial in one’s path to recovery from the pain caused by the traumatic event.
Sharing a traumatic event can be difficult but it can also be life changing.
The anguish of a trauma can leave one feeling alone and broken. Living in the bondage of a painful past is not the only option. Please know that with the right help, healing is possible and very much worthwhile.
