Overcoming Survivor’s Guilt

Survivor’s guilt is a profound and complex emotional human response. It often occurs after individuals have survived a traumatic event that others did not. It is important to note that overcoming survivor’s guilt is possible. Healing from survivor’s guilt may not happen quickly, but it can be done.

In the military and emergency services professions, this phenomenon is particularly prevalent due to the high-stakes nature of their work environments and the close-knit bonds formed between their members. Understanding and addressing survivor’s guilt is crucial for the mental health and well-being of military members and those working in emergency services.

What is Survivor’s Guilt?

Survivor’s guilt is a type of mental response that occurs when someone survives an event that others did not, often leading to feelings of guilt, self-blame, and negative forms of self-talk. Those who experience this form of guilt often question why they survived while others did not. This can lead to deep emotional turmoil. This turmoil can be short-term, as the body integrates and processes through recent events. More impactful, this turmoil can last for long timeframes.

Symptoms and Impact

The symptoms of survivor’s guilt can vary but commonly include:

• Intrusive Thoughts – Constantly thinking about the event and the lost individuals
• Emotional Distress – Feelings of sadness, anger, or shame
• Avoidance – Steering clear of reminders associated with the traumatic event
• Physical Symptoms – Difficulty sleeping, headaches, changes in appetite, or muscle tension

The impact of these symptoms can be devastating, affecting a person’s relationships, job performance, and someone’s quality of life.

Coping Strategies and Support

Coping with survivor’s guilt requires a multifaceted approach:

• Acknowledgement – The first step is recognizing and acknowledging the feelings of guilt. This can be difficult, especially in military and emergency service cultures, where stoicism is often valued and asking for help is devalued.
• Seeking Professional Help – Therapists and counselors specializing in trauma can provide valuable support. Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Somatic Experiencing (SE) therapy can help individuals process their guilt and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
• Peer Support – Spending time with fellow employees who have had similar experiences can be incredibly therapeutic.
• Self-Care – Physical health and mental well-being are intricately linked. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep are critical components of self-care.
• Mindfulness and Meditation – These practices can help ground individuals in the present moment and help people to be more responsive than reactive.

Local Trauma Therapist – Heal From Survivor’s Guilt

Survivor’s guilt is a profound challenge faced by many in the military or others in high-stress, life-threatening job professions. By understanding its symptoms, seeking appropriate support, and employing effective coping strategies, those affected can begin the journey toward healing. It’s essential for our society to recognize and address this issue, providing the necessary resources and support to help our military members and first responders to overcome their hidden scares.

If you are someone or know someone who struggles with survivor’s guilt asking for help can be a challenge. What we do know is that what you’ve done up to this point doesn’t work. Leave us a confidential online inquiry here or call us at 720.295.6703 to see how trauma therapy near you can help you heal.