How to Begin Healing After Medical Trauma

When you or someone you know experience medical trauma, it can have lasting and unforeseen impacts. Medical trauma can also impact the person who was physically impacted, along with anyone else close to them who was emotionally affected by the event.

This type of trauma is defined as physical and psychological responses to medical procedures, injuries, serious illness, or pain. Those most vulnerable to experiencing medical trauma are those who’ve had a scary experience with medical personnel or in a medical setting. Some of the situations linked with medical trauma can include terminal illness, extended illness, heart attack, stroke, or traumatic birth experiences.

It’s important to note that medical trauma can also impact healthcare professionals. In a post-pandemic world, this can be particularly prevalent due to what was experienced during the height of COVID-19.

Medical trauma and PTSD

Studies have shown that there is a correlation between PTSD and medical traumas. This most commonly occurs in ICU survivors due to the duration of hospital stays. It can also be amplified if someone is ventilated or if there’s a pre-existing mental health condition.

Signs of PTSD Related to Medical Trauma

While the signs of PTSD after medical trauma can vary from person to person, some of the most common include being hypervigilant or paranoid and overusing healthcare services. It can also include feeling distressed when attending medical appointments or ruminating over the event.

Coping with medical trauma

While coping with medical trauma and moving on can feel daunting, it is possible to get through. It’s important to find ways to feel comfortable with your feelings and your life after the traumatic event occurs. Below are ways to help begin the healing process after medical trauma.

Journal the experience

Sometimes, it can feel difficult to express your feelings after an event. When it is discussed, it’s easy to feel frustration if you cannot recall events or moments. Journaling can be a great way to recount what occurred in a safe and healthy space. It can also be utilized to write how you’re feeling in specific scenarios and if you’re triggered by what happened at the moment.

Be active

If you’re physically able to, try to exercise. Before starting or amplifying exercise routines, please talk to your doctor first to make sure it’s safe to do so. Discuss a wellness plan with your doctor to help you succeed.

Practice mindfulness

Try taking a deep breath and practice breathing exercises to help keep you in the moment. Slowing down your body and mind can help with ruminating thoughts and alleviate stress.

Keep in touch

It’s normal for people going through a traumatic experience to want to stay away from others and isolate themselves. This can be for many reasons, including shame, embarrassment, or fear. Stay connected with those closest to you to help you feel less lonely so they can help with the healing process.

Take care of yourself

Ensure you’re getting adequate amounts of sleep. This can help restore and heal your body and mind. It’s also important to eat a well-balanced diet and stay hydrated. When recovering from medical trauma, diets can vary from person to person, so make sure you work with your doctor for the nutrition plan that will work best for your recovery.

Avoid drugs and alcohol

Drugs and alcohol can have a negative impact on recovery after medical trauma. In many cases, they can increase anxiety, depression, and paranoia diagnoses. Try to avoid both of these when recovering to help avoid increased trauma symptoms.

If you or someone you know is struggling after a medical trauma, therapy for women can help after medical trauma. Please reach out today to learn more.