How to deal with trauma
‘Many people go through traumatic experiences and sometimes don’t know where to go’.
South Africa is a country with an overwhelming percentage of substance abuse and violence which can be some of the contributing factors to trauma the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) said.
Some people may go through various types of unexpected trauma, whether it is rape, car accident, domestic violence, hijacking, armed, robbery or even witnessing an accident.
A traumatic experience may leave you feeling distressed, and may give you powerful and disturbing feelings. If you have been through such an experience you may need to seek professional help and advice.
“SADAG understands and knows that many people go through traumatic experiences and sometimes don’t know where to go or who to reach out to for help,” Meryl da Costa from SADAG said.
SADAG will be hosting a free Facebook Friday online chat dedicated to individuals affected or have loved ones going through a traumatic experience. There are two live chats planned for Friday, 24 April at 1pm with Psychologists, Mara Zanele and Natasha Botha and at 7pm with Psychiatrist, Dr Frans Korb and Psychologist, David Rosenstein. To log in, go to our website www.sadag.org or go directly to our Facebook Page: “The South African Depression and Anxiety Group”.
Da Costa continued “People react and cope differently with what has happened. You may feel denial, anger or sadness but it is very important to feel hopeful that your life will return to normal again.
“Fortunately some people may over time start to feel better without seeking any professional help however, some need expert help from a counsellor, GP or even a psychiatrist.
“It is important never to use alcohol or drugs to try and deal with a traumatic experience thinking it will help eliminate the painful memories, instead, you need to face and deal with what has happened.”
Tips on how to deal with trauma:
• Give yourself time
• Get counselling to help you move on with your life
• Be involved and communicate with other survivors, join a support group
• Ask for support, open up to family and friends
• Take some time for yourself
• Talk it over
• Get into a routine, exercise can help with your healing
• Meditate or pray, practice relaxation
• Express your feelings as they arise
• Be patient with yourself. Healing can take time
• Details: Contact SADAG on on (011) 234 4837.
