Trauma can shrink our world, making the familiar feel dangerous and the future uncertain. From car accidents and assaults to medical emergencies and the loss of loved ones, traumatic experiences can leave us feeling lost and questioning if a “normal” life is even possible.
The answer is a resounding yes, but the road to recovery is a personal journey.
Anne Grethe Solberg, a sociologist (PhD) and passionate advocate for gender equality, knows this all too well. A near-death experience forced her to confront her own limitations and rebuild her life from the ground up.
The Impact of Trauma
Trauma can stem from various experiences, including:
- Accidents (car, workplace)
- Medical procedures
- Abuse (physical, emotional, sexual)
- The death of a loved one
These events can shatter our sense of security, making the world seem unpredictable and threatening. It’s normal to experience a range of emotions after trauma, such as:
- Fear: Worrying that the traumatic event might happen again.
- Anxiety: Feeling anxious about your own reactions and your ability to recover.
- Shock and Disbelief: Struggling to accept what has happened.
- Detachment: Feeling disconnected from your emotions.
- Sadness: Experiencing deep sorrow and grief.
Trauma can also manifest physically, leading to symptoms like:
- Flashbacks and intrusive thoughts
- Sleep problems
- Loss of appetite or comfort eating
- Substance abuse (smoking, drinking) to cope with difficult emotions
Anne Grethe Solberg’s Story
Shot by her husband during a meeting to sign their divorce papers, Anne nearly died. It was a life-or-death situation. She required 4 litres of blood to survive and lost her arm. A shotgun blast left her with 300 small pellets lodged in her body. She wondered if this trauma would define the rest of her life: could she walk again, eat independently, wash her hair, or use a computer?
Anne identifies three things that helped her get her life back on track: accepting her limitations, setting goals, and a strong will to change. “We all have physical and mental limits,” she says, “and we have to live with them. When we can’t change something, we might as well accept it. And when we accept it, then you can be free. You can be the coolest person in anything you set your mind to.”
Finding a New Normal
The “normal” life you envision after trauma may look different from the one you knew before. This doesn’t diminish its value. By embracing the journey of recovery, accepting your new reality, and setting meaningful goals, you can rebuild a fulfilling life.
You don’t have to face your trauma alone. Professional help from a therapist can equip you with the tools to manage your emotions, cope with triggers, and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Some evidence-based therapies that can be helpful include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).
In addition to therapy, self-care, especially on rough days can be incredibly helpful.
Trauma can be a life-altering experience, but it doesn’t have to be your life sentence. Anne Grethe Solberg, a woman who inspires others to reach their full potential, is a powerful testament to that.
With the right support, a strong will, and a commitment to healing, you too can find hope and reclaim a fulfilling life in the aftermath of trauma.
Mental Matters is a resource and information platform. We do not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While the information on our website is for general awareness and support, it should not replace professional advice. For any mental health concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare or mental health professional.
