Posttraumatic Growth: Positive Transformation in the Aftermath of Adversity - Karen Craddock

Posttraumatic Growth: Positive Transformation in the Aftermath of Adversity

Adversity is a common thread shared among human beings. For some, this adversity or trauma is a singular event,  like a major accident, sudden economic stress from job loss or the death of a loved one. For others, trauma may be complex and long lasting, like those arising from abuse, the breakdown of a relationship, major illness or disability, infidelity or bullying. Many may also identify the current pandemic as traumatic. The challenges presented in 2020 have been far-reaching; from isolation, contact restrictions, economic impacts, and across the world, massive loss of life. The process of rebuilding oneself after a distressing event or period can be slow and painful. Coming to terms with our losses and adjusting to a newfound reality can be incredibly confronting. Most people understand that trauma can be destructive and complicated, but oftentimes, there is another side to the story – Posttraumatic growth.

To illustrate the concept of posttraumatic growth, consider the ancient Japanese art of fixing cracked pottery, Kintsugi. Rather than hiding the cracks, the technique involves re-joining the broken pieces with lacquered gold or silver, so that when put back together, the whole piece of pottery looks as beautiful as ever, even with its broken history! Similarly, the frightening and confusing aftermath of adversity can often force us to take another look at our goals and dreams - leading our assumptions, expectations, and core beliefs to be severely challenged and re-moulded to benefit our newfound reality, eventually allowing us to thrive once again, despite our complicated past.

Posttraumatic growth refers to the positive psychological transformation experienced as a result of the struggle with highly challenging circumstances. It suggests that it is possible for some of us to ‘bounce back’ to a stronger psychological mindset than before the traumatic event, with a greater understanding of the world and our place within it. It is about finding meaning and learning lessons in the aftermath of arduous circumstances.

Many people who experience trauma, such as being diagnosed with a chronic or terminal illness, or losing a loved one, can thrive in the aftermath of trauma. Numerous studies have indicated that whilst individuals can develop PTSD, a large number of survivor’s report growth from their experience.

According to Tedeschi and Calhoun (2004), there are at least five ways that we can experience posttraumatic growth, and these are:

An increased appreciation for life and the smaller aspects of it. Adversity can result in a radical shift in priorities combined with an increase in the importance of what were previously considered the “little things” in life.

The formulation of closer, intimate, and more meaningful relationships. The increased sense of compassion and empathy toward other people experiencing pain or grief as you may have, is one way greater connections and solidarity with other people can occur.

An increased sense of personal strength. This can be characterised by an increased awareness of one’s own coping repertoires and resilience. This typically occurs as a result of the inevitable requirement placed on oneself to marshal all coping capabilities in the midst of adversity.

The identification of new possibilities. The aftermath of adversity may bring about new paths in several domains that you never considered or never thought possible. You may find yourself in your newfound reality searching for a purpose that aligns with your recalibrated identity and core beliefs.

Increased existential and spiritual engagement. Particularly for individuals who are atheistic or not religious – survival of trauma may cause one to have faith in a higher entity, attributing this to the success of their survival.

There are numerous ways that you can facilitate posttraumatic growth. After all, each person’s experiences vary uniquely from one person to the next! Here are some ways that you can facilitate posttraumatic growth:

Support and disclosure. Having involvement of a mental health professional can facilitate the process of posttraumatic growth. A psychologist can thoroughly assess how the trauma has impacted you, whilst guiding the recovery process in a way that offers hope, encouragement, and a safe place for you to articulate your experiences. While not everyone has access or inclination to see a mental health professional- you may also benefit from talking through things with a trusted mentor or wise friend.

Emotion regulation. In order to learn and make sense of a situation, you must be in the right frame of mind, starting with managing negative emotions such as anger, guilt, and anxiety. Instead of ruminating on losses, uncertainties, and worst-case scenarios – strive to recall your successes, best-case possibilities, whilst reflecting on your own resources and coping capabilities. Practice activities that ease emotional tension, such as relaxation, exercise, music, mindfulness, or being in nature.

Narrative Development. Self-reflection, informal conversations, and writing/journaling can assist with making sense of and shaping the narrative of a traumatic event or period. Consider how the event has caused you to recalibrate your priorities and what new possibilities have emerged from it. Detail what you have learned so far and the positive changes you have seen.

Service to others. People may cope better in the aftermath of adversity if they engage in work that benefits others. Focus on how you can help provide relief to others who are experiencing pain and grief.

Time. Recognise that growth will not occur immediately. You will likely need to move through various stages of acceptance, anger, frustration, stagnation, prior to experiencing the growth you desire. Try to facilitate these stages by dropping resistance to the situation, allowing it to occur and holding out for the light at the end of the tunnel- regardless of how far away it seems!

We all process trauma differently, so there is no right or wrong way for this process to occur. It is natural to ruminate over a challenging situation and replay the thoughts and feelings over and over. This is generally a sign that you are trying to make sense of what has happened and are actively re-moulding your belief systems with the aim of creating new and meaningful identity structures. Trauma may even be the vehicle for the most significant personal growth you will experience in your life. Eleanor Roosevelt wisely said: “You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You are able to say to yourself, 'I have lived through this horror. I can take the next thing that comes along.”