Learning to Enjoy Life and Be a Happier Person After Difficult Times

First of all, I'm not a health professional. This is simply practical advice from someone who has spent many years studying, going to therapy and learning what worked for me. Everyone is different. You may want to do things totally differently. I just want you to realize that severe trauma is painful but it is something that you have survived. Now it is time to look forward and grow. Here are some tips I have used to grow in over thirty years from a shy, scared and hurt girl to a strong, and successful adult. I didn't do everything by the books. I did it my way but learned from experts along the way.

Whether your pain is from war, childhood abuse, witnessing trauma or whatever, it is strong and best handled by talking to a professional. Therapists are helpful, go to a few and find one you truly can relate to. My whole family has been to, and been helped by them. They are there to give you advice, and help, not condemn or hurt you.

The source of my pain was due to a highly aggressive, angry and disturbed female family member. I am fortunate to be alive and functioning fully, after enduring bullying, aggression, and a host of erratic and unhealthy behavior at the hands of that person. Authorities removed me from the home and put me somewhere safer as a teen. It changed my life to be around kinder, gentler and caring people. Since that time I have spent my life learning about what it takes to relate in a healthy manner to others and being thankful to those who rescued me so long ago. I forgive those who were abusive, and those who ignored it. It took years but it did happen.

The residue from abuse or trauma can be severe depression, post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety, like in my case. Everyone reacts to life differently, I became very sad and reclusive as a young adult, but hid it by forcing myself to go out with friends. It was a huge struggle to hide the pain sometimes. Having never learned trust, the world felt hostile, and unsafe. At times it still can, but I put it all in more proper perspective now.

Here are some tips to help if you are having trouble with adult survivor or post-traumatic issues: