Children are believed to be extraordinarily resilient and capable of quickly recovering from nearly any difficulty. However, emotional, physical, or behavioral wounds experienced during childhood, if carried into adulthood, negatively impacts relationships, career, happiness, health, etc.

Based on attachment theory and research, processing emotions and feelings caused by childhood trauma is a crucial step in healing from the past. By identifying the trauma, one recognizes the damage it causes to their sense of self. To start the healing process to overcome unresolved childhood trauma, here are some exercises to help create the process of self-healing:

  1. Acknowledge the trauma and ground it: The first step is to acknowledge the existence of the trauma and the triggers associated with it. To begin the healing process, think of core memory or situation from your childhood that evoked an adverse reaction. Acknowledge its existence in the past and remove feelings of self-blame.

  2. Recall and reclaim control: As the feeling of helplessness can carry over into adulthood, think you are meeting your younger self now. In the present, give solace to your younger self, like positive self-talk, a hug, or just the comfort of being there.

  3. Seek support: Don’t isolate yourself after connecting with the inner child. A big part of the healing process is connecting with other people. Talking to a trusted friend, family member, or counselor helps overcome the instinct of trauma survivors to avoid others.

  4. Healthcare: The ability to cope with stress increases when one can follow a healthy routine. Sunshine, water, rest, air, exercise, and diet are the six best doctors for self-care.

  5. Acceptance and letting go: Acceptance means acknowledging difficult emotions without judging oneself for experiencing these emotions. It doesn’t mean one has to embrace the trauma; instead, one decides how to go through it. After accepting, it is easier to let go. Hence, past trauma can no longer affect the present.

  6. Consistency and patience: It will take time to let go of these feelings, and the healing process can initially feel uncomfortable. However, the combination of consistency in practicing these exercises and patience with oneself can help win the battle against childhood trauma.

Healing is a slow process, but eventually, trauma is released. Once we reach the other end of the healing process, it is the most rewarding feeling.

Importance of Professional Counseling: A friend or family member may listen to you, but they aren’t professionally, technically qualified or experienced to offer you professional advice. If you wish you can contact us at MindTribe to receive help from our team of expert psychologists.

About MindTribe.in.

MindTribe Founder Dr. Prerna Kohli, India’s eminent psychologist, established the company to leverage the strength of the online to make counseling affordable and accessible to everyone. MindTribe provides counseling, workshops, support groups, forums, and eLearning.

About the Author.

Chandra Prabha Singh is a psychologist at MindTribe.in. You can learn more about her by clicking here

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of MindTribe.in, the Founders, or management team.

Acknowledgement: All images used are open source and from Unsplash.