09/30/2024
🌀Living Through a Traumatic Natural Disaster: A Therapist’s Personal Story 🌀
As a therapist, I enjoy writing when I need to express my feelings. However, I rarely share my writing with others. Although this is hard for me to do and feels vulnerable, I want to share it in the hopes that it’s helpful to even one person, especially my fellow healers.
I’ve spent my entire career supporting others through some of their darkest moments, and now I find myself in a position I never expected - struggling to find my own footing. That’s not to say I’ve never been through my own fair share of trauma because I have, but this type of trauma feels different to me. Living through a natural disaster isn’t just about surviving immediate danger; it is about navigating the aftershocks in your mind after the storm has passed.
🧠The Impact on Mental Health:
This experience was more than just terrifying. It was disorienting. As the person who is always supposed to “have it together,” I’ve felt lost. Sitting in the aftermath, surrounded by so much loss, feels overwhelming.
I have faced the same struggles I talk my clients through—trouble sleeping, heightened anxiety, and moments of hopelessness. Despite knowing the tools, using them for myself has been challenging. I am being patient and letting myself grieve. It’s okay for even therapists not to have all the answers. I am continuing to lean on my community, accept support, and trust that safety will return step by step.
🌱 Healing Takes Time:
Remember, it’s normal to feel out of control after an event that was genuinely out of your control. Rebuilding a sense of safety takes time. I’ve found that small steps like leaning into some of the most minor routines, deep breathing, allowing myself to cry openly, and talking with loved ones can make a difference.
💙 You’re Not Alone:
Healing isn’t linear and isn’t something anyone should face alone. What happened was frightening, and no one should feel they need to shut down their feelings and “just get over it”—even those of us who are supposed to help others through their trauma. If you’re also struggling, please know it’s okay to feel lost or overwhelmed. The bravest thing we can do is reach out for professional support. It’s a step I have taken for myself throughout my life, and I encourage you to take it as well.
✨Let’s hold space for the healing we deserve, the community we lost and will rebuild, and the strength it takes to look at our fears and keep moving.
🦋If you’re a therapist or fellow healer personally affected by this tragedy: As you navigate the aftermath of this natural disaster, prioritize your own well-being and safety. Your family and property also require immediate attention. It's okay to take time for yourself to recover and regain a sense of normalcy.
🫶🏼 If you’re struggling in the aftermath of this natural disaster, don’t go through it alone. Reach out—healing begins with connection.
