Sustain

> To undergo, experience, or endure without giving way or yielding.

> To keep (a person, the mind, the spirit, etc.) from giving way, when under trial or affliction.

There is a lot involved when it comes to trauma, as often a great deal of patience and persistence is required for the process of healing. One harsh reality is that in spite of trauma, no matter how serious or complex, eventually one goal for moving forward is to be able to sustain some level of stability so that growth and recovery can take place.

Therefore, overcoming a history of trauma is not just looking into the past in an effort to try resolve past trauma. Rather, identifying and then implementing a few basic skills and strategies for sustaining functioning and moving forward even if it is gradual and slow is equally as important if not more so. Having basic tools to sustain some degree of forward momentum, in spite of occasional struggles or setbacks, is essential for long-term progress, strength and resilience.

Question for discussion:

> What simple things get you through the tough times?

Click here to view a full worksheet with coping tools for sustaining yourself through difficult periods when coping with a history of trauma

www.takingtheescalator.com