Living with past trauma in today’s post-pandemic world
Healing and finding hope for those of us living with past trauma in today’s crazy, uncertain post-pandemic world has proven to be difficult, to say the least. At least that’s what I’m hearing within my practice and colleagues working with their own clients. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about unprecedented changes and stressors, triggering feelings of fear, isolation, division, and uncertainty. For those already living with past trauma, these added challenges can exacerbate existing symptoms and make it even harder to navigate daily life.
Managing triggers and the added life stressors can be the most difficult part of navigating our post-pandemic world. The pandemic has disrupted routines, increased social isolation (it’s actually started a “relationship crisis”), and heightened fears about health and safety, all of which can trigger traumatic memories and feelings of anxiety. The ongoing uncertainty and rapid changes in the world can leave you feeling overwhelmed and out of control.
Here are some proactive steps you can take to support your mental health journey and your overall well-being in this post-pandemic world:
Seek Support: Reach out to trusted friends, family members, or your therapist for support and guidance. Talking about and being honest about your experiences and feelings can help alleviate the burden of carrying them alone.
Prioritize Self-Care: Practice self-care activities that promote relaxation and stress reduction, such as mindfulness meditation, exercise, spending time in nature, or engaging in hobbies you enjoy.
Establish Routine: Create a daily routine that provides structure and predictability. This can help reduce feelings of chaos and uncertainty and provide a sense of stability in an ever-changing society.
Set Boundaries: Learn to set boundaries and prioritize your own needs and well-being. Say no to activities or commitments that feel overwhelming or triggering, and prioritize activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.
Stay Informed (Mindfully): Stay informed about current events and public health guidelines, but be mindful of how much news and information you consume. Be discerning on your information sources and limit exposure to triggering or distressing content.
Engage in Community: Connect with supportive communities or groups of individuals who share similar experiences. Finding solidarity and understanding from others can provide a sense of belonging and validation.
Practice Gratitude: Cultivate a sense of gratitude for the small moments of joy and beauty in life, even amidst challenges. Keeping a gratitude journal or simply taking a moment each day to reflect on what you're thankful for can help shift your perspective and promote resilience.
References:
Hébert M, Jean-Thorn A, Fortin L. History of trauma and COVID-19-related psychological distress and PTSD. Psychiatry Res Commun. 2022 Dec;2(4):100092. doi: 10.1016/j.psycom.2022.100092. Epub 2022 Nov 23. PMID: 36439886; PMCID: PMC9682866.
