If you’re reading this, chances are you or someone you love is navigating the challenging journey of PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder). First, let’s acknowledge something important: dealing with PTSD and its potential for retraumatization is incredibly tough. It can feel like a storm that just won’t let up. But here at Life Discovery Counseling Services, we want you to know that there is hope, healing, and a way forward—especially when you lean on your Christian faith.

Understanding Retraumatization

Retraumatization occurs when a person is exposed to reminders of a traumatic event, leading to a resurgence of PTSD symptoms. This might happen through flashbacks, triggers in the environment, or even through conversations that evoke painful memories. The feelings that arise can be overwhelming, and you may find yourself grappling with anxiety, fear, and emotional pain all over again. It’s normal to feel lost during this process but remember, you don’t have to face it alone.

Turning to Faith for Healing

Christian faith can provide a powerful anchor during tumultuous times. Here are some ways you can draw on your faith to cope with retraumatization from PTSD:

Prayer as a Source of Comfort:

Prayer can be a lifeline during moments of distress. When you feel overwhelmed, take a moment to pause, breathe, and turn your thoughts to God. Pour out your feelings, share your struggles, and seek His peace. Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Scripture for Strength:

The Bible is filled with verses that offer comfort and hope. When you feel the waves of retraumatization crashing in, turn to scriptures that speak to your heart. Verses like Isaiah 41:10 (“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God”) can remind you that you are not alone. Consider keeping a journal of scriptures that resonate with you, and refer to them during difficult moments.

Community Support:

Surround yourself with a supportive Christian community. Whether it’s your church, a small group, or trusted friends, having people who understand your journey can provide much-needed encouragement. Sharing your struggles with others can lighten the burden and foster healing.

Mindfulness and Meditation:

Incorporating mindfulness techniques can help you ground yourself in the present moment, reducing the intensity of PTSD symptoms. Combine mindfulness with your faith by meditating on a scripture or focusing on God’s presence around you. This practice can help create a sense of peace amidst the chaos.

Professional Counseling:

Seeking help from a Christian counselor who specializes in trauma and PTSD can provide invaluable support. They can help you navigate the complexities of retraumatization, offer coping strategies, and integrate your faith into the healing process. At Life Discovery Counseling Services, we’re here to walk alongside you on this journey.

Practical Coping Strategies

In addition to turning to faith, here are some practical coping strategies to help manage retraumatization:

1. Identify Triggers: Keeping a journal of your experiences can help you identify specific triggers that lead to retraumatization. Triggers can be external (in your environment) or internal (your own thoughts, emotions, or body sensations). Awareness is the first step in managing your reactions and finding ways to cope.
2. Establish Routines: Creating a daily routine can bring a sense of stability and predictability to your life. Engage in activities that promote self-care, such as exercise, hobbies, and relaxation techniques.
3. Practice Grounding Techniques: When you start to feel overwhelmed, use grounding techniques to bring yourself back to the present. This could involve focusing on your breath, identifying five things you can see, hear, or touch, or engaging your senses in your environment.
4. Set Boundaries: It’s okay to take a step back from situations or people that trigger distress. Setting boundaries is an important part of self-care and can protect your emotional well-being.
5. Celebrate Progress: Healing is a journey, and it’s essential to celebrate your progress, no matter how small. Recognize the steps you’ve taken, and allow yourself to feel pride in your resilience.

Hope and Healing Await

Coping with retraumatization from PTSD is undoubtedly challenging, but remember that you are not alone in this journey. By leaning into your Christian faith and utilizing supportive strategies, you can find peace and healing amidst the storm. At Life Discovery Counseling Services, we are here to offer guidance and support as you navigate this path toward renewal and strength.

Start PTSD Treatment in Hillsboro, OR

If you’re ready to take the next step toward healing, we invite you to reach out. Together, our team of caring therapists can help you explore the ways your faith can illuminate the path forward, helping you reclaim your life and embrace hope. You are worthy of healing, love, and the abundant life that awaits you!—together, we can help you build the loving, open, and communicative relationship you deserve! Start your therapy journey with Life Discovery Counseling Services by following these simple steps:

1. Reach out to us for more information or to schedule an appointment
2. Meet with a trained trauma therapist
3. Start healing from past trauma!

Other Services Offered with Life Discovery Counseling Services

Our team is happy to offer support for a variety of mental health concerns. In addition to things like PTSD treatment, we are happy to also offer support from a number of locations. If you are in Clackamas, Happy Valley, Damascus, Hillsboro, or Beaverton, we can help you in person at one of our comfortable therapy clinics. Other services offered include support for children in counseling, depression treatment, anxiety therapy, relationship issues, marriage problems, and postpartum counseling. No matter where you are in the state, we can provide the support you need with online therapy in Oregon. Once you’re ready to start, we’re ready to meet you. Let’s connect!