By Nancy Virden (c)2023

Psychological trauma is not so much an event; it is a negative emotional shock that continues to interfere with a person’s sense of well-being for an indefinite period. Not everyone who goes through similar difficulties will be traumatized, so calling tragic events “traumas” is incorrect.

The danger of misusage is accidentally dismissing trauma as something to be shaken off. If other survivors seem to have avoided negative effects, why can’t everyone? We do not dare to negate the importance of a real struggle. If we do, our attempts at reassurance can sound hollow and judgmental.

Instead of saying, “This has made you stronger,” try, “This has made a significant impression on you.” Instead of, “Aren’t you over it yet?” try “Recovery can take a long time. I am here for you.”

The worst response we can offer is comparison. A man mocked healthcare workers with PTSD after the Covid crisis. He bragged that he had seen death during wartime and did not have PTSD.

Firstly I wonder if he is in touch with his emotions at all, and secondly, he is clearly ignorant of the fact that no two people are alike. It takes a certain amount of arrogance to assume superiority over people who suffer differently.

Having trauma is not due to a weak character or spiritual flaw. Trauma means your brain, body, emotions, and nervous system had a shock overload. We were not created to withstand evil in a fallen world. As a few of us are more susceptible to viral infections, so are people who are more likely to experience PTSD.

What we do share in common is the ability to trust in God. He loves a contrite (honest about pain or wrongdoing) heart and promises to never leave His own as we heal.

-COMMENTS WELCOME

Today’s Helpful Word

Isaiah 57:15

The high and lofty one who lives in eternity, the Holy One, says this: “I live in the high and holy place with those whose spirits are contrite and humble. I restore the crushed spirit of the humble and revive the courage of those with repentant hearts.

If you are feeling suicidal, or concerned about someone who is, in the U.S. call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988, or for a list of international suicide hotlines, go here.

If you are suicidal with a plan, immediately call 911 in the U.S. or go to your nearest emergency room. In the EU call 112. (For other international emergency numbers, go here ). Hope and help are yours!

Always the Fight Ministries (ATFM) has been displaying compassion for those fighting mental illness, addiction, or abuse since 2012. Nancy is the founder and voice of ATFM and openly shares her emotional resurrection from despair. NOTE: Nancy is not a doctor or a mental health professional, and speaks only from personal experience and observations. In no way is this website intended to substitute for professional mental or behavioral health care.

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