Traumatic events may destroy the sense of normalcy and leave people battling to find motivation. These may range from natural disasters to terror attacks and personal tragedies. Statistics show that 70% of adults in the US have gone through at least one such experience. That means you are not alone!
Having resilience is an admirable human characteristic, so you can expect to recover eventually. But there are times when the burden becomes too great to bear alone. It is essential to regain motivation at such times. However, challenges abound on the journey back to recovery.
This guide will highlight the signs indicating that regaining motivation is becoming difficult. We will guide you through the confusing web of emotions, anticipation, and fears accompanying traumatic events. With these insights, you can learn how to find the motivation to start over and heal.
Sign #1: Persistent sadness
It is natural to feel sad after witnessing a traumatic event. However, you may require assistance if your sadness remains and starts to take over your daily life for a prolonged amount of time. Lingering sadness can have an impact on your overall well-being. This makes it difficult to participate in everyday tasks or even look forward to the future.
Seeking the help of a therapist or counselor can provide an atmosphere of security for exploring and dealing with these feelings. It allows you to regain a sense of emotional stability.
Sign #2: Social withdrawal
Social withdrawal is a sign that you may require assistance to reclaim motivation after a traumatic event. Deep emotional struggles may manifest in many ways. These may include avoiding relatives and close friends, canceling plans, or excluding yourself. Trauma frequently causes a desire to be alone to deal with the experience.
However, too much isolation may worsen feelings of hopelessness in the long run. Reaching out to a support network or seeking professional help can assist you in gradually reintegrating into social life and regaining motivation through interaction with others.
Sign #3: Sleep deprivation
Sleep is the body’s natural reset button, Being unable to achieve deep sleep can be a major red flag. Trauma can disrupt normal sleep patterns. This results in insomnia, recurring nightmares, and a habit of waking up during the night. Sleep deprivation can amplify feelings of despair, nervousness, and emotional exhaustion.
Seeking assistance from a medical professional or therapist can provide techniques to improve sleep quality. It may also address underlying emotional turmoil. Thus, it paves the way for improved motivation and emotional healing.
Sign #4: Constant anxiety
Persistent anxiety is another sign that you may require help in restoring motivation after a traumatic event. Anxiety can appear in various ways. These may range from generalized worry to panic attacks. You may feel constantly on edge, not able to focus on tasks or set future goals.
A mental health professional can assist you in developing coping mechanisms and strategies for controlling anxiety. Seeking justice for traumatic events someone else is responsible for can make a difference. The 9/11 disaster is a unique example in this context because unknown miscreants ruined thousands of lives. According to Parker Waichman, victims can claim compensation under the Zadroga Act, and they should do it to start again.
The compensation offers more than justice and peace of mind. It can help you pay your medical bills, which also contribute to anxiety.
Sign #5: Substance abuse
Individuals may use drugs or alcohol for relief and to numb emotional pain after going through trauma. This behavior may develop into a self-destructive coping mechanism. It further exacerbates the emotional impact of the traumatic event.
Substance abuse is not easy to deal with. Seeking help from addiction counselors and therapists can provide an organized approach to recovery and regaining motivation.
Sign #6: Loss of productivity
You may need support during your recovery journey if you see a noticeable decrease in productivity and difficulty concentrating on previously achievable goals. Upholding productivity after a traumatic event can be difficult.
Professional intervention is required when the loss of productivity threatens your job or daily responsibilities. A counselor or therapist can help you develop strategies for regaining focus. They also help you to set realistic goals and rediscover your motivation to perform at your best.
Conclusion
The aftermath of a traumatic event is a challenging and emotionally charged phase. Recognizing the signs that you require assistance to regain motivation demonstrates your strength and resilience. Remember that seeking help is a sign of self-love and a crucial step on the path to recovery and renewal.
