10 Ways to Help a Person Who Has Experienced Trauma
The following 10 recommendations are based on my experiences. It is not meant to be an exhaustive list. This list is intended to be a starting point and to provide inspiration. If you feel called to provide other means of support, please do. We are all learning and healing together.
1. Make Sure Their Basic Needs are Met
For someone who has just experienced trauma- physical violence, natural disaster, car accident, abuse or anything else it is important to make sure they are provided for in their initial recovery period. They might need shelter or other forms of assistance like help moving. Be there in any way you can. Bring them basics like water, food, clothes and toiletries depending on the situation. Ask them what they need.
2. Give Them Unconditional Love
Let them know you care. Ask them if you can hug them. If they need a shoulder to cry on be there. It is important for them to feel loved and supported. Your love can mean so much to a person who needs reassurance that life will get better.
3. Help Them to Relax
Consider gifting them a massage or a spa day (if you are able and they are comfortable with it). Human touch can be very healing for many people. Reading and music are also great ways to bring on a sense of relaxation.
4. Share Healthy Meals
Nutrition is key for strength and recovery. Sharing meals can be a way to provide comfort. Helping them to have regular, healthy meals is very important. Encourage them to drink lots of water and stay hydrated.
5. Listen to Their Story
People like to be heard. Give them space to talk freely about their experience if they want to share. If not let them know that is okay too. You should support what ever they choose to do. Not all people want or need to share their story. Never share their story without their permission, especially publicly. Allow them to find their voice in whatever way feels best to them. Writing is also a good choice for many people. Do not compare yourself or your experiences to theirs. Validate their feelings.
6. Rest
The body requires rest to recover. Remind them to get adequate sleep. If they are having trouble sleeping physical exercise can be a way to help the body to naturally become tired. Exercise and rest help the body to re-set its rhythms. Create spaces that are free from distraction for them to sleep.
7. Create Community
When they are ready bring them to healthy places for safe social interaction. Ask them where they like to connect with people and help them to bond with others. Seek out places that are experienced and equipped to deal with trauma survivors. If they offer meetings or gatherings attend them with the person if they want you too.
8. Encourage Meditation
One great resource for guided meditations is Insight Timer. This is a free app for both I-phones and Androids. Download it onto their phone and allow them to choose meditations that they feel drawn too. They can also read a book on mediation and practice that way. If you are near meditation centers try going to one and mediating in a group or with a practitioner.
9. Take Them into Nature
Nature is so powerful. Time in nature can heal many things. Make use of your local surroundings. Hiking, walking and being outside are all great ways to help restore a sense of people.
10. Establish Routines
Work with the person to create a realistic routine for them to follow. This can be as simple or advanced as the person is ready for. Be gentle in your approach. Make sure they have plenty of time to adjust to the new circumstances in their life. Routines can provide structure for moving forward. Always be mindful of their mental and physical state. Never push them too hard.
I hope this is helpful! Love Cassiopeia <3
