Helping & Healing: Trauma Responses

Even those who walk in faith can find it difficult to be faithful during times like this . . . and that’s completely normal. The Bible speaks to the fears that can lead us down this path and gives us words of wisdom to hold onto when difficult times arise. Isaiah 40:31 says, “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary.”

This verse reminds us that we are not alone in our pain, and healing trauma is possible with both spiritual guidance and practical tools.

Ways to Help Yourself Heal

When a tragedy happens in a place of worship, it can cause you to question yourself, those around you, and even your relationship with Jesus. At Lapeer Christian Counseling, we do our best to walk in the footsteps of Jesus within our community. Our goal is to provide care and guidance to individuals and families dealing with trauma from many different types of experiences . . . all while in a safe and welcoming environment.

We will not pretend that healing from trauma is a quick-fix, but there are research-based tools used in therapy that you can practice on your own to ward off extreme anxiety. These help-aids can deliver tangible practices to help you step out of your fears and into a place of renewed strength.

Healing from Trauma Close to Home

When our community faces a tragedy like the recent shooting at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, many emotions can take root, especially when the holy spaces where we are supposed to feel safest feel anything but. While it is completely understandable and wholly human to let fear responses overtake your senses, we want to provide a little help and a lot of hope when it comes to healing trauma and your body’s response to it, because how we react matters!

Tools that Can Help

These tools and tips can help you manage the anxiety related to trauma you have experienced.

Grounding Techniques

Name 5 things you can see, 4 things you can touch, 3 things you can hear, 2 things you can smell, and 1 thing you can taste.

Close your eyes and place one hand on your abdomen while you breathe deeply and calmly. Do this until your exhale lasts longer than your inhale.

Rest & Restore

Create a routine with sleep habits, meal times, and movement

Find comfort that calms the senses like:

Sipping on a cup of hot tea
Use a weighted blanket
Read a book or listen to soothing music
Take a walk in the sun

Make time for prayer. Connecting with our thoughts and our Father can help you to feel more at peace and clear of mind.

Reframing Intrusive Thoughts

When fear takes hold of you, write it down. Ask yourself:

Is this fact or fear?
What would I say to my best friend?

Allow yourself to replace “I’m not safe” with “I feel unsafe at the moment, but there are things I can do to feel more grounded.”

Community & Connection

Spend time with others who are also affected by joining:

Support groups
Community gatherings
Volunteer missions

Spend time with your church family

Seek spiritual guidance
Pray and worship with those around you

Community Support

Our thoughts and prayers are with each and every person in our community who has been affected by the devastating shooting at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

Psalm 34:18

To see a list of GoFundMe verified fundraisers created by friends and family of the victims, click here.

Healing Trauma with Therapy

Practicing these tools can help in healing trauma responses and is a great way to begin releasing some of those fears on your own.

Sometimes you might need more support than you can handle by yourself, and that’s okay. The guidance of a professional counselor can help you make sense of the chaos and find comfort in a supportive counselor-client relationship. If the fears you are facing are beginning to overtake your ability to function, please don’t suffer in silence. We want you to know that we are here to help you ease those burdens and remind you that you are not alone.