Tips for Managing Acute Trauma

Not exactly a journaly post but one that matters. Because even though we do our best, sometimes chaos still finds us.

What is acute trauma anyway?

Acute trauma is defined as a singular traumatic event that is brief in duration, such as an assault or a car accident.  Experiencing an acute trauma does not necessarily mean you will develop PTSD.

We can drastically decrease the risk of PTSD by taking care of ourselves well in the immediate aftermath of such an event. In the following days/weeks following, the primary goal is to reintroduce a felt sense of safety in the body. We do this by avoiding hyper arousal and using tools that calm our nervous system.

What to AVOID: Anything that puts stress on the body and nervous system.

• Fasting

• HIIT workouts

• Combat sports

• Violent media

• Watching the news

• Difficult people

• Excessive caffeine

• Cold plunges

• Staying up late

• Making large life decisions

• Highly stimulating settings

What to DO: Prioritize soothing, rhythmic behaviors and connection. Oxytocin (the bonding/love hormone) down regulates cortisol (stress hormone).

• Cuddle

• Spend time in nature

• Spend quality time with safe people

• Yin yoga

• Shake/rock back and forth

• Humming

• Warm baths

• Dance/intuitive movement

• Warm food

• Red light therapy

• Use weighted blankets

• Play calming, binural beats

Finally, if you want professional help, get help. Early interventions are effective and available.