Most of us have heard of post-traumatic stress, but have you heard of post-traumatic growth?
While “post-traumatic stress disorder” (PTSD) is the official term used in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, I prefer the term “post-traumatic stress injury.” Injuries are what naturally happen when we get hurt. And with proper care, injuries heal.
Post-traumatic growth occurs when a person not only recovers from trauma, but EXCEEDS the level of functioning and satisfaction they had prior to the trauma. Several different factors can contribute to post-traumatic growth. For one, in pursuing healing for their trauma, they may also find help with improving other areas of their lives. In addition, the huge strength they show during their healing journey can spotlight for them just how much they are capable of. Finally, the experience they’ve been through can equip them to better understand others who are suffering and to be of service.
The potential for post-traumatic growth does not excuse abuse or justify trauma. It does not mean traumatic events “happen for a reason,” as only the trauma survivor can make meaning of their experience. What it does mean is that there is life after trauma, there is hope after trauma, and there can be incredible beauty and resilience after trauma. I have seen it with my own eyes, and it is my hope for every survivor.