Faith & Trauma
MESSAGE OF HOPE
The effects of trauma can stem from a wide range of experiences and events, such as: abuse in childhood, neglect, domestic violence, rape, sudden death of a loved one, natural disasters, and war. Trauma affects more people than you may think. In fact, research by the National Institute of Health indicates that approximately 51% of women and 61% of men the U.S. will experience at least one traumatic event in their lifetime. The human response to trauma occurs on three levels: biological, psychological, and social. It is not due to personal weakness or weak faith, but it is a normal reaction. Healing from trauma takes time. Learning how to filter past traumatic experiences through God’s grace and implementing some practical stress relieving skills and tools can aid in the healing process and provide hope.
3 QUESTIONS TO ASK
You can help a loved one share their pain by asking these three simple questions and listening without offering judgment or solutions.
- What happened?
- How did it make you feel?
- What was the hardest part for you?
Thank the person for sharing and be willing to listen again.
Help carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
– Galatians 6:2
THE SAFE LISTENER’S PROMISE
I will listen to understand.
I will keep what you share private.
I will not minimize your pain.
I will not compare your pain with my own.
I will not give quick solutions.
I will listen again when you want to share more.
What Is PTSD?
Learn more about post-traumatic stress disorder
Trauma Resources
Healing from trauma can be hard. These free resources from The Trauma Healing Institute Can Help.
Trauma Soul Care
How the church can help
Looking for a Church Home?
Contact us to get connected to a caring congregation in your area.