How Do I Stop Thinking About Past Trauma?

Trauma is a deeply distressing or disturbing experience that can have a profound and lasting impact on a person’s life. It can be caused by a variety of events, such as childhood abuse, sexual assault, witnessing violence, or experiencing a natural disaster.

Trauma can lead to a range of psychological and emotional problems, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and substance abuse. It can also affect a person’s physical health, leading to problems such as chronic pain, heart disease, and diabetes.

One of the most common ways that trauma affects people is by making them think about it excessively. This can be a very difficult and distressing experience, and it can make it difficult to move on with life.

If you are struggling to stop thinking about past trauma, there are a number of things that you can do to help yourself.

1. Talk to someone

Talking to a therapist or counselor can be a very helpful way to process trauma and to learn how to cope with it. A therapist can provide you with support and guidance, and they can help you to understand your experiences and to develop coping mechanisms.

2. Write about it

Writing about your trauma can be a therapeutic way to process it and to gain a sense of closure. You can write in a journal, or you can start a blog or website about your experiences. Writing can help you to express your emotions, to understand your experiences, and to connect with others who have been through similar experiences.

3. Exercise

Exercise can be a great way to reduce stress and to improve your mood. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects. Exercise can also help you to sleep better, which can also help to reduce stress and improve your mood.

4. Get involved in activities that you enjoy

Doing things that you enjoy can help to take your mind off of your trauma and to relax. Spend time with friends and family, pursue your hobbies, or volunteer in your community. Doing things that you enjoy can help to improve your mood and to make you feel more connected to others.

5. Get help with medication

If you are struggling to cope with the symptoms of trauma, medication may be an option for you. Medication can help to reduce anxiety, depression, and other symptoms of trauma. Talk to your doctor about whether medication is right for you.

6. Practice mindfulness

Mindfulness is a practice that can help you to focus on the present moment and to let go of the past. There are many different ways to practice mindfulness, such as meditation, yoga, or simply paying attention to your breath. Practicing mindfulness can help you to reduce stress, to improve your mood, and to gain a sense of peace.

7. Be patient with yourself

It takes time to heal from trauma. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t feel better right away. Just keep working at it, and you will eventually reach a place where you can feel peace and happiness again.

Questions and Answers

1. What are some of the common symptoms of trauma?

• Anxiety
• Depression
• PTSD
• Substance abuse
• Chronic pain
• Heart disease
• Diabetes

2. What are some of the things that can trigger trauma memories?

• Certain sights, sounds, smells, or tastes
• Certain people or places
• Certain events or anniversaries
• Stressful life events

3. What are some of the things that I can do to cope with trauma memories?

• Talk to someone
• Write about it
• Exercise
• Get involved in activities that I enjoy
• Get help with medication
• Practice mindfulness
• Be patient with myself