By Corey O’Connell
Trauma manifests in different ways for different people. Some people experience flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety. Others feel numbness, disconnection, or detachment from reality. These symptoms make it hard to function normally, leading to social isolation and feelings of hopelessness. These emotions can also make it difficult to connect with others and can even interfere with daily tasks such as work. Coping with trauma is not easy, but there are strategies you can use to manage these difficult emotions. In this post, we will explore coping mechanisms for those struggling with numbness and disconnection.
Numbness, disconnection, and detachment are all common symptoms after a traumatic event occurs. You may feel like you are in a daze, disconnected from your emotions or surroundings. It is important to recognize these symptoms and understand that they are a normal response to trauma. It may take time to process what you have experienced, but these feelings will eventually pass. There are some practical steps you can take on your own to help decrease your symptoms.
Practice self-care
Taking care of yourself is essential when coping with trauma. This includes getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, having good personal hygiene habits, and engaging in activities that make you feel good. Self-care activities can include anything from taking a relaxing bath, getting a massage, or taking a walk in nature. When we intentionally take time for ourselves, we can reconnect with our bodies and remind ourselves that we are worthy of care and love. Exercise, yoga, or meditation can all help you feel more grounded and centered. Avoiding drugs and alcohol is also important, as they can interfere with your ability to heal.
Engage in creative activities
Activities such as drawing, painting, or writing can be helpful tools to connect with yourself and safely distract from difficult emotions. When we engage in these activities, it allows us to express ourselves in a way that words may not be able to capture. By connecting with your creative side, you can decrease feelings of disconnection and detachment and better understand your emotions.
Seek support
Trauma is often isolating, and it is normal to feel like no one understands what you are going through. However, it is important to remain connected to safe people. Even if the people in your life have not experienced your trauma it is important to remain connected and seek support from friends or family members. Support can also be found in support groups or online forums.
Seek professional help
It is important to seek professional help if you are struggling with trauma-related emotions, such as feeling numb, disconnected, or detached. A therapist or counselor who specializes in trauma can help you make sense of your feelings. Additionally, they can provide a safe, judgment-free space where you will find support while exploring your emotions. Most people who recover from trauma use their personal faith to make meaning out of their traumatic experiences. It is helpful to explore your spiritual resources at your church, talk with a trusted pastor or find a faith-based support group to participate in.
Grounding techniques
Grounding techniques can help you stay present and reconnect with yourself when you feel disconnected. Some examples include breathing exercises, meditation, or focusing on your senses (such as listening to music or feeling the sensation of your feet on the ground). You can also try journaling or drawing to help you express your emotions and connect with your inner self.
Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and yoga, when used regularly can help regulate emotion. By focusing on the present moment, you can learn to manage difficult emotions without feeling overwhelmed.
Be patient with yourself
Coping with trauma is a process that takes time. You will have good days and bad days, and that is okay. It is important to be patient with yourself and not rush the healing process. Remember that healing is a journey, and it is okay if it takes longer than you expected. Celebrate your progress along the way and acknowledge the strengths you are using daily. Remind yourself that you are strong, resilient, and you will recover.
Learn more about the effects of trauma by checking out our previous blogs:
Part 1: 5 Signs You May Need a Trauma Therapist in Tampa, FL
Part 2: Identifying and Changing Negative Thought Patterns After Trauma
Part 3: Understanding and Coping With Painful Trauma Nightmares and Flashbacks
Part 4: Coping with the Numb, Disconnected, and Detached Feelings Caused by Trauma
Part 5: Unpacking Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms: Identify Behaviors You Need To Let Go Of
Part 6: Overcoming the Fear and Avoidance of Trauma Triggers with Therapy
INTERESTED IN GETTING STARTED WITH A THERAPIST IN TAMPA, FL?
Our therapists can help you reconnect with yourself and your world from our North Tampa, FL office located in the Northdale neighborhood. To start grounding yourself and managing your symptoms, follow these simple steps:
Contact Christian Counseling of Tampa or call us at 813-254-3200
Schedule to meet with one of our counselors at our North or South office.
Start learning to manage your symptoms associated with your trauma.
OTHER SERVICES OFFERED WITH CHRISTIAN COUNSELING OF TAMPA
Our Tampa, FL-based therapy practice offers a wide range of services to meet your specific needs.
We understand the many ways your mental health may be impacted in life. As a result, our team is happy to also offer play therapy, premarital counseling, Christian counseling, counseling for teens and young adults, and therapy for depression. We use a variety of treatment modalities including CBT, EFT, grief therapy, and more! Feel free to learn more about us by visiting our FAQ or blog today.