Navigating the Duality of Trauma: Resilience and Persistent Presence

The Unseen Persistence of Trauma: Navigating Unexpected Resurfacing

In my work with those who've experienced trauma, we frequently explore the surprise, exhaustion, shock, and/or anger that accompanies the unexpected resurfacing of trauma. These moments often arise without warning, cannot be anticipated, and are often why a person reaches out for my support. A routine daily activity may trigger a memory or evoke an emotion, leading some individuals to describe the experience as if their entire world has come to a crashing down, leaving them lost and afraid, asking when will this be over. They may express disbelief at the continued impact of the trauma, thinking they had already processed and resolved it. Many wonder why they were not informed that trauma can persist in this way. Some express thinking they have failed at the work they have done, rather than see it as an ongoing journey where they have made process. The medical model of 10 sessions might have led us to expect healing within that timeframe. However, it's important to note that counselling doesn't fall under the 10-session mental health plan model.

The Complex Impact of Trauma on Daily Life and Long-Term Wellbeing

Responses to trauma can vary significantly at the time of the event, as well as in the immediate aftermath and over the long term. These responses may manifest emotionally and/or physically, potentially disrupting relationships and affecting sleep, diet, capacity for exercise and movement, and work performance. There is no correct or incorrect way to experience trauma; however, when it begins to affect daily functioning, it is helpful to understand and manage these responses effectively.

Trauma is an intricate experience that often leaves an permanent mark on our psyche, shaping our thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. While we may learn to manage and hold our trauma, integrating it into our lives, the pain and memories associated with it frequently linger beneath the surface. This process of holding trauma can manifest as resilience, where individuals develop coping mechanisms and strategies to navigate daily life. However, the reality remains that the trauma does not simply disappear; it exists as a part of our narrative, influencing our interactions and perceptions. Acknowledging this duality—learning to coexist with our trauma while recognising its persistent presence—can be a crucial step in the journey toward healing and self-acceptance.

Embracing the Ongoing Journey of Healing: Understanding and Navigating Unexpected Trauma

We, as counsellors, often discuss the healing journey. I have had clients share that they believed this journey had a destination, a point where they would be free from trauma. However, the journey is indeed an ongoing process. There are changes along the way—some aspects become easier, while others can surprise you, much like the scenery that suddenly appears as you round a corner on a train trip through the Swiss Alps. While a new view in the Alps is a delightful surprise, an unexpected reminder of a traumatic moment is not as welcome. Which is what has prompted me to write this blog post. When trauma continues to surface when it was not expected can be very scary, so my goal is to equip you with the knowledge, so although it may surface at a time you couldn't have predicted, you will hold a level of understanding that it is normal for it to surface unexpectedly.

Counselling is not about processing, packaging and closing the chapter on the trauma. Instead, it involves understanding the impact of the trauma, the changes it has brought about, and how to navigate and lead a meaningful life while acknowledging that experience will always be part of us. The objective is to make it lighter and easier to carry most of the time and to know that we have strategies to manage when it becomes more burdensome. This process may also encompass recognising the growth that has resulted from the experience, identifying new skills acquired, acknowledging the resilience developed, and potentially using your experience to support others.

You may also like to read about Post Traumatic Growth - I wrote about that here

Embracing Hope and Resilience: The Journey of Healing After Trauma

Life after trauma can often feel daunting, yet it is also a journey filled with hope and resilience. Many of us discover that through the pain and challenges, we can emerge stronger and more self-aware. The process of healing allows for the rebuilding of our identity and the exploration of new possibilities. Support from loved ones and professional guidance can illuminate paths to recovery, fostering a sense of community and understanding. As we navigate our emotional landscapes, we often find renewed purpose and the capacity to inspire others with our stories of survival, demonstrating that even in the aftermath of adversity, hope can flourish and lead to a brighter future.

This is the reason I am dedicated to this field: I have faith in the growth that follows trauma, the journey of self-discovery, the realisation of one's true potential, and the profound appreciation for life gained through a renewed perspective on its preciousness.

Journal Prompt - Navigating the Duality of Trauma

What strategies do you use to emotionally regulate when you're reminded of your trauma?

What positive changes have you experienced since you started on your healing journey?

Perhaps, if it feels safe to do so, you might like reflect on your trauma, a time it resurfaced unexpectedly?

What did you notice first? Was it in the body? Thoughts? How you responded or reacted?

Taking the Next Step

If you would like support to navigate and integrate, and prepare for the journey that is healing after trauma, understand how navigating the duality of trauma might look for you, I invite you to book a 15 Minute Connection Call with me, where we can get to know each other and make sure that we are the right fit for your Healing Journey.