Navigating the healing process after physical trauma is often difficult and frustrating. When you undergo an event which causes physical trauma, the brain processes information differently. The amygdala, or the brain’s alarm system, breaks down and becomes overactive. The physical body reacts to the event as if it’s still happening, which can cause physical symptoms. The brain must learn that the danger has already passed. When you understand the five stages of recovery, you can make sense of the symptoms you’re experiencing and navigate the path toward becoming emotionally free.
5 Stages of healing from physical trauma and how to heal
Stage 1 is the emergency or impact stage. The body goes into survival mode. Symptoms include extreme anxiety, physical shaking, feeling powerless, and disorientation. The phase is sudden and can last from a few minutes to several days. Immediate safety for stabilization is a priority. Ground yourself outside of the trauma with deep breathing to process what happened.
Stage 2 is the denial stage, in which the individual attempts to mentally and emotionally distance themselves from the trauma. Symptoms include denial, depression, anxiety, strange dreams, or difficulty sleeping. Denial can cause internal stress without an outlet. Although the brain is attempting to protect itself, denial can cause further harm. The first step is to acknowledge the experience. Admission is the first step in the healing process.
Stage 3 is the intrusive repetitive stage. The individual is acknowledging and accepting that their trauma is real and may be the most challenging phase. Memories of the event may make it hard to concentrate or sleep. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, isolationism, difficulty managing emotions, and susceptibility to triggers. This is a crossroads in which the individual must make a decision to continue with their internal emotions or move forward toward recovery. Finding safety through therapy can help in recovery.
Stage 4 is the acceptance or transitional stage. The person who suffered the trauma has moved past the shock of the intrusive stage. At this point, the individual is beginning to accept the reality of the situation without being weighed down. The attitude becomes more accepting of the situation and open to therapy. The goal is to transition into a normal, daily lifestyle, not a return to their lifestyle before the trauma. Symptoms from the event may still be present, but intentionally addressing the symptoms is a positive step.
Stage 5 involves long-term recovery and sustainability. The individual uses daily coping strategies for continued growth. The goal is to successfully manage symptoms, including nightmares, depression, or anxiety. While the symptoms may sometimes recur, they don’t dominate the person’s life. Goals include:
- Regular attendance at school or work
- Maintaining consistent self-care
- Setting and achieving goals
- Managing PTSD symptoms
- Engaging in interpersonal situations
Success involves reconstructing your life with an everyday routine. After a physical trauma, it’s essential to have the ability to have hope and look forward to the future.
Personal injury psychology, trauma, and recovery
Victims of personal injury face physical, emotional, and legal challenges. Stress can arise from unpaid bills, medical treatments, and pressure from insurance companies. Emotional trauma can have negative effects and impede recovery. If you’ve suffered physical trauma, a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer understands the complex issues, including the physical, mental, and emotional anguish victims face, and will advise you of your rights.
Adam Mulligan, a psychology graduate from the University of Hertfordshire, has a keen interest in the fields of mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.
