Billy Graham’s rapid response team offers 5 tips on dealing with trauma.
Trauma can affect us in multiple different ways, physically, emotionally and spiritually. It’s normal to have a response to trauma. But it’s not healthy to ignore the associated emotions.
Here are some suggestions in dealing with it.
First, Talk about it. Whether acquired by hearing a firsthand account in person or via social media— the emotions it evokes shouldn’t be dismissed.
Next, Protect Yourself. Social media, because of its ability to post raw images in the moment. Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram let users turn off the platform’s autoplay feature. This means you get to choose what videos you watch.
Then, Grieve with God by your side. Jack Munday, international director of the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team says, “There is good grief if we can grieve God’s way, and that’s through His Word, through prayer and the counsel of godly people.”
Next, Don’t isolate. Express grief your own way. For some, that means visiting a memorial, even if you have no personal attachment to that particular tragedy.
Show grace. Munday encourages people not to have expectations of others during times of grief. Those who love us most can sometimes deliver the most unintentional, yet piercing blows.
And finally, Get involved. Whether you’re ministering to family, friends or coworkers, the training can help empower you to make a lasting difference in this world.