The Impact Of Trauma Changes Us.

There is a sad truth when it comes to trauma. One of which I wish people understood more. It is up to us to not only help those in crisis, but to educate those that just simply don't get it. Every now and then someone might ask, "why is it we post some news stories instead of just up-lifting?" The answer is very simple, as much as those in service like to be informed of what is going on in their field, we need to educate civilians on the flip side of the coin. We always hear the negatives, particularly when it comes to policing. There is so much emphasis on the negative that we never think of how did the situation get to that stage and why. We share the hardships of what they experience daily because there needs to be a clear understanding as to why they feel as they do. The beat down daily from the public, the lack of support from government and sometimes the "brass" the constant scrutiny has such a profound impact on their well-being. The one question I alway say to people who don't understand it is, "ask yourself this.....could you do it?" In order to understand their trauma, we have to know how and were the trauma came from.

There is no point in someone telling an officer or a first responder to simply "get over it." Don't you think if it was simple, they would simply just do that? But it simply is not that easy. The struggle is very real and it is on repeat daily. Think to one of the most stressful days in your life, remember how anxious you were, how upset you were and how exhausted you felt. Now add in a state of hyper-vigilance, the adrenaline rush and the massive dip after that rush. Then there is fear and loss. These are all emotions people don't think officers experience because they have this stern demeanor which they must have to do the job they do. They also have to be the person with many faces, to go from that work life to the home life. Can you imagine what it is like to just try flip a switch and try not take what you have experienced that day home with you? It doesn't always happen but it can. In turn it can cause friction in home life, feeling on edge, being irritable with their kids or partner and sometimes recognizing your mood swings and feeling guilty for reacting in a negative manner. Now think of that feeling those emotions most days of your life. It is not a good thought.....right?!

There are different stages that someone suffering with trauma must undertake in order to get to where they need to be. The reality is in fact much bigger, it is a massive life disruption that leaves a new normal in the aftermath. Life as they know it has changed, not just temporarily but forever. They are a different person after it period. Don't get me wrong, it is not a negative thing. Healing from trauma is in itself, a positive thing. It is an inner strength you have found, which is the strongest, strength you will ever experience. There is a pride in that, that you will discover when you look back at where you were verses were you are now.

In healing you simply can't paper over the cracks, in the hopes it will preserve or present things as normal. It is to acknowledge and wear your new life, scars and all with courage. You can beat this, by making the choice to fight, to live and manage your demons. You owe it to yourself to do it. You got this.

Irish Angel, will always be here for you. If you need help, we have an army of recourses available to provide you help, reach out to me at, [email protected] , we got you! Much love and respect always from Irish Angel.