You have been involved in a violent event. Either you or a loved one has been injured or killed or you may have witnessed such an act. You are afraid to be in public or be near strangers. You flinch at loud noises, passing cars, or someone passing you on the sidewalk. Your dreams are filled with freaky, grotesque images waking you and causing you sleepless nights. You get angry at those around you for little or no reason. You’re tired of people asking you if you are “all right.” But in your own mind, you might be asking, “What is wrong with me?”
Chances are you’re suffering from trauma. The violent event(s) may have occurred recently or years ago. You need to take care of yourself.
Some things you can do to help yourself: keep up with your daily life, eat properly, and get a good night’s rest. Talking about the event(s) with people who have also experienced trauma can help. Talking also provides solace and support. You might also consider therapy. Why therapy? Because talking with others in a group (guided by a trained counselor) or individually with a counselor may help you deal with the issues and assist you in moving forward.
Chester Community Coalition offers free services with four different ways to help you find peace and return to your normal activities. There are two group sessions with others suffering from trauma, sessions with other families, and private individual sessions.
- Group counseling provides a more social atmosphere with other trauma victims who can relate to your event and problems.
- If you have lost someone through violence, a grief support group will help you to accept the loss and to move ahead with your life. It lessens the loneliness of the burden caused by the loss.
- A family can find the support they need to heal in group sessions that include a meal and separate group therapies for adults and children.
- In individual counseling, you will work one on one with a counselor who can delve more deeply into your particular issues and help you to work towards normalcy.
Free yoga classes are available and will help calm your mind and spirit. The Chester Community Coalition offers assistance to families and individuals who find themselves in need of temporary housing, food, and personal items. The Coalition may also be able help with transportation to your sessions.
Your life is important to you, your family, friends, and coworkers. Call (610) 368-0714 to talk to a staff member and learn how we may serve you.