For many people in addiction recovery, trauma is an underlying commonality. For many of us, traumatic experiences – whether they be from an assault, an accident or a natural disaster – can have such a significant impact on our mental, physical and spiritual health that we rely on substances to numb the pain. Once in recovery, however, we find that there are other ways to move forward in our lives – and while it’s painful to confront the aftermath of trauma, it is possible to heal. Dr. Kanako Taku, associate professor of psychology at Oakland University, told the American Psychological Association (APA) that post-traumatic growth is, “…Refers to what can happen when someone who has difficulty bouncing back experiences a traumatic event that challenges his or her core beliefs, endures psychological struggle, and then ultimately finds a sense of personal growth. It’s a process that ‘takes a lot of time, energy and struggle.’”
Those who’ve been forced to identify a new belief system because of what they’ve gone through may experience some amazing transformations in recovery, which lead them to:
- Greater appreciation of life
- Enhanced relationships with others
- New possibilities in life
- Personal strength
- Spiritual change
- And more
Hope is crucial for post-traumatic growth because even through the pain and devastation that can come over us, the hope that things can get better can be strong enough to provide motivation for pushing through in recovery. The Posttraumatic Research Group at The University of North Carolina at Charlotte explains that while traumatic events are never good, they can produce some powerfully positive results for people who become stronger from them.
If you’re currently finding that it’s hard to carry on after a traumatic event, hold onto the hope that your life can and will get better. Healing is possible – and if you’re ready to embrace some truly effective interventions that could change your life in some positive ways, speak with a professional from Alta Loma today.
If you’re ready to begin taking great strides towards your health and wellbeing, speak with a professional from Alta Loma today. Mental illness should be taken seriously and, if not treated early on, more severe conditions can arise. The best way to promote happiness and health is to seek help – and to begin using effective interventions for treating the problematic symptoms a person is experiencing. Don’t wait any longer to seek the help you need. Please call Alta Loma today – and you’ll be surrounded by a healthcare team who truly cares about your recovery. 866-457-3843
