The Power of Community in Trauma Recovery

A Sense of Community Can Be a Powerful Thing!

Community can be incredibly helpful in many ways, as it offers support, shared resources, and opportunities for growth and learning. Humans are fundamentally social beings, and community plays an essential role in our lives. In fact, a good and safe community is grounded in our evolutionary roots! Throughout human history, survival depended on living in groups. Early humans faced dangers from the environment, animals, and other groups, and living together increased their chances of survival. Communities helped ensure food security, mutual protection, security, and child-rearing support, which were all essential for survival and reproduction.

In the modern day, things are actually not that much different. Psychologically, humans thrive in social environments. Many scientific studies show that social connections boost mental health and decrease stress, anxiety, and depression. Hormones like oxytocin, sometimes called the “bonding hormone,” play a role in forming close social connections and reinforce feelings of trust and attachment. For many, a sense of purpose comes from contributing to something greater than themselves, which often involves being part of a group or community. Helping others and working toward shared goals provides a deep sense of fulfillment and meaning.

Community in Trauma Recovery

Community can be a powerful source of support during hardship, helping in ways that are practical, emotional, and psychological. It can play a significant role in trauma recovery by offering a safe, supportive environment for healing. Oftentimes, trauma survivors can feel isolated in their experiences. A supportive community provides validation and empathy, helping people feel understood and accepted. Being around others who listen and genuinely care can help relieve feelings of shame, guilt, or self-blame that often accompany trauma. Additionally, being around others who have healed or made progress in their recovery journey can be incredibly inspiring.

People in the community who have experienced similar trauma and found ways to cope can serve as role models, offering practical insights and hope for the future. When healing from trauma, it is important to feel as though there is a sense of hope and opportunity for recovery. In this way, healing from trauma often requires encouragement to take small steps toward recovery, whether that’s starting therapy, trying new activities, or even just re-engaging in everyday life. Oftentimes, within a community, there are other people there to provide positive reinforcement, helping individuals feel supported as they navigate the challenges of recovery. Furthermore, other people can connect individuals to resources like counseling, support groups, workshops, and other forms of professional support. Access to these resources can make the path to recovery easier, less intimidating, and more hopeful. 

Resources for Community in Trauma Recovery

There are a variety of resources designed to support individuals in trauma recovery within a community setting.

1. Support Groups: Local community centers, hospitals, and counseling centers often host trauma-focused support groups. These groups, often led by trained facilitators, provide a safe space for sharing experiences and connecting with others.
   1. https://namidenver.org/support-and-education/support-groups/
2. Faith-Based and Cultural Community Organizations: Many faith communities and cultural organizations offer trauma support, counseling, or peer groups tailored to their specific community. Some organizations, like Jewish Family Services or Catholic Charities, provide culturally sensitive trauma recovery services for various groups.
3. Community Events and Public Awareness Initiatives
   1. https://traumahealth.org/
   2. https://www.denverhealth.org/services/trauma/trauma-survivors-network
   3. https://caring4denver.org/stories/the-center-for-trauma-resilience/

Start Working with A Trauma Therapist in Englewood, CO

Community helps trauma recovery by providing stability, compassion, and a sense of belonging. It acts as a steady foundation, reminding survivors that they are not alone and offering tools, guidance, and companionship throughout the healing process. Our team is here to provide support in helping you find community and healing. Start your therapy journey with Mountain Vista Psychology by following these simple steps:

1. Schedule a free phone consultation
2. Begin meeting with a caring therapist
3. Start recovering from past trauma!

Other Services Offered by Mountain Vista Psychology

At Mountain Vista Psychology, we provide many services to help empower individuals on their journey toward mental and emotional well-being. So in addition to offering trauma therapy, we also provide counseling services in child counseling, adult counseling, family counseling, & more. We also provide Neurofeedback Therapy services for Neurofeedback for ADHD, Neurofeedback for Autism, Neurofeedback for Concussion/ TBI, and Neurofeedback for Sports/Performance. Our team also provides testing for learning disabilities, ADHD, and Autism. Be sure to check out our Blog and FAQs for more about us and our services!