Do you ever fully heal from trauma?

Yes and no. Healing from trauma is not about forgetting or erasing the traumatic event, but learning to live with it and managing the impact it has on your life. This process is different for everyone and it may take a significant amount of time. Some people may never be able to say that they’re completely free from the effects of their trauma, but with professional help and self-care, they can manage the symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.

How do you process trauma without therapy?

Therapy is highly recommended for processing trauma, and while there are several self-care strategies, it is best to seek ways to get professional help. For example, look into local community centers to check if they provide low-cost or free therapy. Deep breathing exercises, regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and good sleep hygiene can help with the management of symptoms. Mindfulness practices and grounding techniques can provide immediate relief during moments of high stress. Journaling can also be beneficial, as this allows you to express your feelings and thoughts in a safe, private space. It might be better to hide or lock up your journal to make sure no one reads it without your permission. You could also build resilience to cope with trauma symptoms by establishing safe relationships, which can act as a support system. A therapist can help people with trauma understand what safe relationships look like. However, it’s important to remember that these techniques should not replace professional help, particularly in cases of severe trauma.