No matter the exact cause or when it happened, you experienced a traumatic event. Even though it’s in the past, it feels like it’s haunting you every single day.
You go through the motions each day trying not to think about it, but something always brings you back to that moment.
A voice, a smell, an outfit, the weather.
The flashbacks, negative thoughts, and PTSD are becoming too much for you to handle on your own. But you don’t have to suffer like this forever. Recovery is possible.
Here’s how to begin healing from sexual trauma.
Do Things That Make You Feel In Control
You may feel like you can’t control what happens to you since the trauma. Reclaim your power by doing the things that bring you joy.
This will look different for everyone. You may feel empowered by going on a hike. Someone else may feel a sense of power by getting on stage in front of a crowd. Others may feel in control by changing their look by buying a new outfit or changing up their hairstyle.
Another great way to feel more in control is to repeat affirmations to yourself. Your affirmations could look like any of the below:
- “I forgive myself.”
- “I am reclaiming my power.”
- “I deserve happiness.”
Reconnect With Your Body
Your body may feel like the enemy after experiencing a traumatic event.
It can take time to get back in touch with your body and feelings after experiencing something like an assault.
Reconnecting with your body may feel like a threat, but avoiding these feelings won’t help you heal.
When you’re ready, there are several different techniques you can try to reconnect with your body. Try out a few different techniques and find what works best for you:
- Massage
- Meditation
- Mindfulness
- Rhythmic Movement
- Yoga
Once you’re able to reconnect with your body, your sense of safety, confidence, and power will be reclaimed.
Stay Social
Being social doesn’t mean you have to talk about your experience with everyone you hang out with. It just means that you’re making an effort to stay connected to your loved ones despite wanting to disconnect due to your trauma.
Having fun and surrounding yourself with friends, family, and loved ones can be a great way to begin healing. Even if you don’t have any desire to spend time with others, make an effort to participate in social activities when you’re mentally and physically able to do so.
Self-Care
The healing process takes time. Make sure you’re nurturing your body and mind so they can operate and function to the best of their abilities.
Some of the symptoms you may have from your trauma may cause you to change your eating and sleeping habits. Try to get a handle on those areas in your life again.
Eat healthy, well-balanced meals during the day. Aim for at least 8 hours of sleep each night, so you can rest and recover for whatever the next day throws your way. Getting your body moving for at least 30 minutes daily will also boost your endorphins and help to naturally relieve stress.
Talk to Someone You Trust
Healing from sexual trauma takes time. Talking to someone about your past and reliving some of those haunting details may be difficult. The truth is that releasing those thoughts, feelings, and emotions can help with your healing process.
Despite your desire to withdraw and self-isolate, you don’t have to go through this alone. If you’re interested in learning more about incorporating therapy as a way to heal from sexual trauma, reach out to me today to schedule a consultation.
You can also learn more about counseling for trauma here.
