Finding Strength Amid Trauma: Comfort and Hope for Those Facing PSTD

When trauma touches our lives, it doesn’t just go away. For many, the memory lingers—painfully vivid, unwilling to fade. One of my clients recently opened up about the relentless memories and overwhelming emotions she’s faced after a failed rape attempt. She has had PTSD, crying, and feeling tortured by the memories that keep resurfacing. She asked me, “Will this pain ever go away?”

I shared a bit of my own experience with her. After my accident, I still find myself shuddering when I remember it. Traumatic memories often stay with us, popping up unexpectedly. But there are ways to manage and cope, finding healing even when the memories remain. So, I want to share this for anyone grappling with the aftershocks of trauma, offering hope, strength, and a few practical steps to navigate the journey.

Steps to Finding Healing and Peace

1. Acknowledge the Memory, Don’t Fight It 

      When painful memories arise, our first instinct may be to push them away. However, fighting memories can give them more power over us. Instead, recognize them as memories. Ground yourself by saying, “This is a memory. It’s in the past, and I am safe now.” Acknowledging the memory without fear can help us separate it from our present reality.

Healing from trauma is not about erasing memories; it’s about finding strength to live fully despite them.”

2. Ground Yourself in the Present Moment 

   Trauma can make us feel like we’re reliving the experience. When you think that overwhelming rush, try grounding techniques, focus on your breath. Take a moment to feel your feet on the floor, or name five things you see around you. This helps your mind reconnect with the present moment, reminding you that the traumatic event is not happening right now.

PTSD may bring back memories, but it does not define your future. Each day is an opportunity to reclaim your peace.

3. Reach Out for Support 

   Healing is not a journey meant to be walked alone. Find someone you trust—a friend, counselor, or coach—who can listen without judgment. Talking about the trauma and having someone share in the journey can provide immense relief and encouragement.

4. Practice Self-Compassion 

   Trauma leaves wounds, both visible and invisible. Be gentle with yourself, recognizing that healing takes time and your feelings are valid. Some days will be easier than others, and that’s okay. Feel your feelings without judgment, and be kind to yourself.

Healing is a journey. Take each day as it comes, and allow yourself the grace to heal in your own time.

5. Consider Professional Help 

   PTSD can be complex, and professional guidance is often essential. Therapies like EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and trauma-informed counseling can provide strategies tailored for healing from trauma. Don’t hesitate to seek help from those trained to walk this journey with you.

Embrace resilience: You are stronger than your past, and you’re rewriting your story with each step forward. 

6. Establish a Routine for Stability 

   Trauma can leave life feeling chaotic and unpredictable. A daily routine— journaling, meditation, or gentle exercise—can bring a sense of stability. Routine helps rebuild a sense of normalcy and control, grounding you as you navigate each day.

Scriptures of Hope and Healing

 

We can find comfort in God's word in times of deep pain and overwhelming memories. These verses are potent reminders of His presence and promise to heal, protect, and bring peace:

Psalm 34:18 – “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” 

   (God’s presence is near, especially in times of pain.)

Isaiah 41:10 – “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” 

   (A promise of strength and support during struggles.)

Psalm 23:4 – “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” 

   (Even in our darkest moments, God provides comfort and protection.)

2 Timothy 1:7 – “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” 

   (Encouragement to hold on to the peace and strength that God provides.)

Matthew 11:28-29 – “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” 

   (An invitation from Jesus to find peace and relief from our burdens in Him.)

Affirmations to Build Strength and Resilience

In our conversation, I promised my client affirmations to encourage her and remind her of her inner strength. These can serve as daily reminders of resilience, peace, and self-worth:

1. I am safe, and I am grounded in this present moment.

2. My past does not define me. I am reclaiming my peace, one day at a time.

3. I release any feelings of guilt or shame; what happened is not my fault.

4. I am allowed to feel, heal, and take my time.

5. I am more potent than the memories that surface. They are part of my past but do not control my present.

6. I am worthy of love, compassion, and understanding—especially from myself.

7. I release fear and invite peace into my heart with each breath.

8. I am learning to trust myself and my strength again.

9. I am resilient. I have survived, and I am finding new ways to thrive.

10. My body, mind, and spirit are healing, and I honor each step of this journey.

Final Thoughts

To anyone facing PTSD or the trauma that just won’t go away, know this: You are not alone, and you don’t have to carry the burden by yourself. God is with you, and healing, though challenging, is possible. Take each day as it comes, hold on to hope, and remember you are stronger than this experience.

Committed to your transformation, 

Dr. Oyindamola Okenla 

Your Transformational Catalyst