Trauma can profoundly impact a person’s life, but not everyone can afford to seek professional counseling. While nothing is a substitute for professional mental health care, there are significant measures you can take to help yourself. For example, here are some ways men on a popular online forum confessed to handling trauma without funds for therapy.
1. Journaling
One man suggested that journaling can be an effective way to deal with trauma. Writing out one’s thoughts and emotions can help process and release them.
To take it a step further, the person recommended tearing up the pages and lighting them on fire, which can symbolize letting go of negative feelings. This advice was given to them by their therapist and has proven helpful.
2. Speak Out
Conversations with a good friend can be relieving. Talking to someone you can trust and being honest helps you cope with trauma. There are support groups too. One man believes life has ups and downs, so when you’re feeling down, it’s crucial to remember that the ups are on the way.
3. Go to the Nature
The consensus among the group was that hiking trips or experiencing nature is beneficial to your mental health. Being outside and connecting with Mother Nature can work wonders in helping with trauma. Many people underestimate what being outside and hiking can do for you mentally.
4. Free or Low-Cost Counseling Courses from Local University
Checking with a local university for free or low-cost counseling could be helpful, but they acknowledged that this might only apply to students. The person further noted that while it’s not bad advice, it’s essential to consider that if someone can’t afford therapy, they may not be able to afford college.
5. Self-Education
Another man confessed that educating oneself about the signs and symptoms of PTSD can be empowering. Learning how to identify the signs in oneself makes it easier to describe one’s emotions, cope with anxiety and manage flashbacks.
They also suggested that group therapy for people with similar trauma can help build connections and support.
6. Seek Help from YouTube
YouTube videos can be a helpful and accessible resource for dealing with trauma. For example, several men recommended Dr. K’s Healthy Gamer GG channel. He “explores comprehensive approaches to Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, and Meditation.”
These videos can offer guidance and coping mechanisms for individuals who cannot afford therapy. Many others mentioned Richard Grannon as a helpful YouTube resource.
7. Community Meetings
Many communities have weekly meetings for grief or trauma groups, which are often free and anonymous and can be a great way to find support and connection with others who have gone through similar experiences.
8. Free Resources
Another user stated that self-work could be a helpful way to deal with trauma without spending a lot of money. They recommended using the Libby app to access free books and audiobooks from the library. The person also acknowledged that the healing process might not eliminate the trauma but can improve with time and effort.
9. Find a Hobby
According to many, finding an artistic hobby with a well-defined start and end can help deal with trauma. For instance, they suggested painting something or learning a new song on an instrument. Even if one doesn’t share the finished product with anyone, the satisfaction and confidence from “finishing it” can be an odd but powerful boost.
10. Book Reading
Finally, many suggested that reading books about inspiring people who have overcome similar trauma can be helpful. Additionally, one recommended looking for books by reputable doctors about their assessment and recovery processes and trying out the coping mechanisms that worked for others.
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