Rebuilding Trust in Yourself After Trauma

Written by Jordan Meehan, LCSW

Trauma can be like a storm that rages through your life, leaving behind wreckage and confusion. Among the many challenges it brings, one of the hardest to overcome is the loss of trust in yourself. It’s like the ground beneath your feet becomes shaky, and you start questioning your every move and decision. But even in the darkest of times, there’s a flicker of hope—a chance to rebuild the trust in yourself that trauma has shattered. The darkness doesn’t have to last forever. Rebuilding trust in yourself after experiencing a traumatic experience is possible.

Understanding the Impact of Trauma

Trauma has a way of shaking the very foundation of your being. It can leave you feeling lost, confused, and disconnected from yourself. When something traumatic happens, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed and unsure of yourself. These sensations may be experienced in the body, mind, or possibly both. You may find yourself second-guessing your thoughts, feelings, and decisions, wondering if you can ever trust yourself again. Your mind becomes a battlefield, with doubts and fears fighting against your sense of self-assurance.

Rebuilding Trust is a Journey

Rebuilding trust in yourself after experiencing trauma is not a quick fix. It’s a journey—a winding road with twists and turns, ups and downs. There will be setbacks along the way, moments when you feel like you’re taking two steps forward and one step back. But every stumble is an opportunity to learn and grow. Remember, healing is not a destination; it’s a process—a journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance.

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Start Rebuilding Trust in Yourself after Trauma

While trauma can and does leave an impact on your ability to trust yourself, others, and your decision-making, it does not mean that you don’t have the chance to regain your capacity for trust.

Be Kind to Yourself

Self-compassion is key to rebuilding trust. Instead of being hard on yourself for what you’ve been through or how you’re feeling, try to treat yourself with kindness and understanding. Acknowledge your pain, but also recognize your strength and resilience. You’re doing the best you can with what you have, and that’s something to be proud of. Remember, it’s okay to not be okay sometimes. Be gentle with yourself as you navigate this difficult time.

Pay Attention to the Now

Mindfulness can be a powerful tool in rebuilding trust in yourself. By focusing on the present moment, you can quiet the noise of intrusive thoughts and fears that often accompany trauma. Start small—take a few moments each day to breathe deeply, to ground yourself in the here and now. Notice the sensations in your body, the sounds around you, the rhythm of your breath. In these moments of mindfulness, you can both start to retrain your body to be calmer and you can get a break from the onslaught of intrusive thoughts and feelings.

Change Negative Thoughts

Trauma has a way of distorting your perception of yourself and the world around you. It can fill your mind with negative beliefs and self-doubt. However, it’s important to challenge these thoughts and replace them with more balanced and empowering ways of thinking. When you catch yourself thinking negatively about yourself or your abilities, pause and ask yourself if those thoughts are really true. Are they based on facts, or are they just the echoes of past pain? By questioning your negative thoughts and reframing them in a more helpful way, you can start to rebuild trust in yourself and your capabilities.

Celebrate Wins

In the midst of hardship, it’s important to celebrate even the smallest victories along the way. Whether it’s speaking up for yourself, making a difficult decision, or simply getting through another day, every step forward is a cause for celebration. Take time to acknowledge and honor your progress, no matter how incremental it may seem. Celebrating your wins can boost your confidence and motivation, reminding you of your strength and resilience in the face of difficulties.

Embrace Imperfection

Embrace the beauty of imperfection. Trusting yourself doesn’t mean being flawless or having all the answers. It’s about accepting yourself, flaws and all, and recognizing that you’re worthy of love and respect just as you are. Allow yourself to make mistakes and to stumble and fall along the way. It’s all part of the journey of growth and self-acceptance. By embracing your imperfections and learning from your experiences, you can cultivate a deeper sense of self-trust and self-compassion.

Trust in Others

Finally, you don’t have to go through this journey alone. Seek out support from friends, family, or a therapist who can offer empathy, validation, guidance, and specific strategies to help you overcome your challenges. Talking about your experiences and feelings with someone you trust can help you feel less alone and more understood. It can also provide you with new perspectives and coping strategies for navigating the challenges of rebuilding your ability to trust yourself. Remember, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. You deserve support and compassion as you heal from your trauma and learn to trust yourself again.

Get the Support You Need to Rebuild Trust after Traumatic Experiences

Rebuilding trust in yourself after trauma is a challenging but ultimately rewarding journey. It takes time, patience, and courage to heal from past wounds and learn to trust yourself again. But with self-compassion, mindfulness, and the support of others, you can find your way back to a place of strength and self-assurance. You are resilient, capable, and deserving of trust, both from others and, most importantly, from yourself. Contact Restorative Counseling to schedule an appointment today.