Trauma isn’t something you can just get over with a snap of your fingers. When we are traumatized, we always lose something.
If you missed our first or second part of this series, don’t worry - we have you covered!
Why you can’t just get over it (Intro - Part 1)
Why you can’t just get over it (Denial - Part 2)
And, if you are continuing with us, let’s move into the second stage of the 5 stages of trauma together - Anger.
Stage 2: Anger
After transitioning from the initial stage of trauma, the harsh realities of your frightening encounter may begin to resonate, triggering the subsequent stage of trauma—anger.
When experiencing emotions and memories linked to trauma, anger can naturally arise. This applies to children as well. Whether it stems from loss, past abilities, or the injustice of the experience, anger is a typical reaction to trauma that requires understanding.
Interestingly enough the anger stage is also a coping mechanism, just in a different way than denial. Anger helps mask feelings of sadness, grief, and pain.
This second trauma stage is challenging, especially for parents, and can be lengthy but again it needs to be understood so you can better understand those around you, so you yourself can get through it and so you can try and be the best version of yourself along the way. Some of the ways anger can manifest unexpectedly are:
- Irritability
- Sarcasm
- Defiance or opposition
- Isolation
- Increase intensity of narcissist behavior
- Reverting to thinking in a child ego state of mind
You may also feel common anger signs, like outbursts when reminded of trauma or irrational anger at objects.
How to deal with stage 2
First, talk and make sure you talk with the right people. Understand that sometimes talking with just anyone isn't a great route. This is where therapy can be a helpful tool for uncovering the root cause of anger and identifying underlying emotions. It's important to note anger can significantly impact personal and professional relationships so finding a safe and unbiased place to work through this stage is beneficial on many levels.
Now, if trauma-induced anger becomes uncontrollable, seeking professional help for anger management, processing of trauma, working on your inner child, PTSD symptoms and more is not only beneficial but essential and today there are many options to work through this incredibly tough stage including EMDR, medication (if required by your therapist and/or physician), CBT and more.
Stay tuned to our next blog where we will jump into the third stage of trauma. And, make sure you subscribe and share this content with those you love.
They may not be ready for it the moment you share but when they are it will be a great place for them to start working through some pretty big topics without
a cost and you may just be the person that helped someone find a new way to look at and get through their current circumstances.
On a side note, we are excited to let you know we will be partnering
with an online licensed therapy provider soon!
- so -
Stay tuned to find out the services they offer, how you
can connect with them and more.
Hugs,
The Lakunakai Team