Trauma is is one of the most isolating experiences we can have, even though trauma is a remarkably shared experience. Most people alive on earth will encounter some kind of trauma during their lifetime. Some of us will quickly move on without much issue. Others of us will develop symptoms which indicate that we’re having difficulty coping with what we’ve encountered. Few of us will develop post traumatic stress disorder, a mental health disorder which can be accompanied by anxiety, depression, and much more. Though virtually everyone is coping with some kind of trauma, each and every one of us believes that we are completely alone in that experience. Until we have a moment of awakening to realize differently, we can be convinced of our isolation.
Isolation is considered a trigger or a red flag in recovery from trauma. Full of lies, deceptions, and manipulations, isolation wants to indoctrinate us into a truth of loneliness which separates us from the love, warmth, and support of others. As a symptom of mental health, trauma puts us at risk for substance abuse, eating disorders, psychiatric disorders, and other problematic behaviors. Without connection to others, we might turn to one of these maladaptive behaviors as a way to feel less lonely, to punish ourselves for isolating from others, or to keep others at a distance out of fear. Isolation tells us to fear judgment and rejection. Comfortable in its own destructive way, isolation also tells us to fear connection, support, and understanding- the very things we frequently crave when we are isolating.
Sinking into isolation is a habit we develop overtime. In order to overcome the habit of isolating, we have to develop new habits. Mistakenly, we believe we need to “break” the habit of isolation, when in fact, we just need to “break up” the habit of isolation and develop new habits. The opposite of isolating is engaging. Gently, we need to find a way of identifying our tendencies toward isolation then actively engage in the opposite. If we believe that we are alone in our trauma, we tell ourselves we are not alone in our trauma. If we stay home rather than meet with friends, we find a way to compromise, perhaps having friends over to our house. We go to recovery support meetings, we talk to others on the phone, and we find small, subtle ways to engage until our desire for isolating passes. Throughout the process of engaging, we develop new habits for coping with the feeling of loneliness in trauma by simply realizing, we are not alone.
Everyone has a story of trauma before they come treatment. Everyone leaves with a story of recovery when they leave treatment. The Guest House Ocala is a private treatment center specializing in the treatment of trauma, addictions, and related mental health issues. Your program of care is customized according to your specific experiences and needs. Our luxury amenities provide the highest level of quality care and comfort so you feel safe, supported, and serene. Call us today for information: 1-855-483-7800