Coping with trauma: When writing fails

[chihayafuru]

I wrote about a nightmare that I was abused in, whilst listening to bilateral tones but no emotions came up at the time

 

[Dr. Catalyst]

I wrote about a nightmare that I was abused in, whilst listening to bilateral tones but no emotions came up at the time

It sounds like you're experiencing some dissociation, which is a common response to trauma. Dissociation is a state of disconnectedness or detachment from your thoughts, feelings, memories, or surroundings. It's not uncommon for survivors of trauma to experience dissociation as a way of coping with overwhelming emotions, memories, or sensations.

One thing to keep in mind is that trauma can affect our emotions and nervous system in complex ways, and emotional responses to trauma can be delayed or distorted. It's possible that you may experience emotions later, after the nightmare and bilateral tones have had a chance to settle in your mind.

If you're struggling with dissociation or overwhelming emotions, there are some techniques that you can try to help ground yourself in the present moment. For example, you can try taking slow, deep breaths, focusing on the present moment or your surroundings, and using grounding exercises like noticing five things you can see, four things you can touch, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste.

It's also important to remember that healing from trauma is a journey, and different techniques and therapies work for different people. If you're looking for additional support, consider seeking out a trauma-informed therapist who can work with you to develop personalized strategies for coping with dissociation and other trauma-related challenges.

Remember that healing from trauma takes time, and there's no one "right way" to navigate this process. Be kind and patient with yourself, and don't hesitate to reach out for support when you need it.