Experiencing psychological distress, whether, from the aftermath of a road crash or the heavy weight of grief, it can feel incredibly challenging and isolating. During this time, several myths and misconceptions can surface. These myths can lead to confusion, create unnecessary pressure, and most importantly, hinder our ability to heal. They often distort our understanding of trauma and grief, making it harder to seek help, recognise progress, or give ourselves the time and compassion we truly need.
This blog will take a closer look at three common myths surrounding trauma and grief that can mislead your recovery. By shedding some light on these misconceptions, we hope to offer clarity, promote a more compassionate perspective, and emphasise the importance of professional support. Whether you are navigating the aftermath of a traumatic event yourself or supporting someone who is, understanding and addressing these myths can support a healthier path to healing.
Myth 1: “Time heals all wounds” or “You should be over by now”.
Time plays an important role when we experience a traumatic event or a loss in our lives. I Time can alleviate emotional distress, but it is not a definitive healer on its own. As humans, we have unique experiences that will shape us in some way or form. Our own personal experiences throughout life will determine how we process traumatic experiences and grief. Therefore, imposing a specific timeline of when the healing process will happen can hinder the process itself. Healing requires engagement through personal reflection, meaningful connections and for some, professional support.
Therapists approach grief and trauma with empathy, recognising that healing is deeply personal and shaped by individual experiences- it’s not a one-size-fits-all-all process. Rather than subjecting your journey to a strict or rigid timeframe, creating a compassionate and non-judgmental space for yourself or others will allow you to explore emotions at your own pace. This approach supports a healthier, more authentic path to recovery.
Myth 2: “Counselling or Psychological support is only for severe cases”.
Another common myth about trauma and grief is the belief that counselling or psychological support services is only for those individuals dealing with extreme or severe trauma. This misconception can discourage people from seeking help, especially if they feel their struggles might not be “serious enough”. The truth is that support services, such as counselling, are beneficial for anyone dealing with emotional distress, no matter the intensity or scale of their experience. Whether you are struggling with overwhelming sadness, anxiety, grief, trauma or simply feeling stuck after a traumatic event such as a road crash, seeking support can make a significant change in your healing journey.
Psychological support is not just for crises, it is a tool that can empower individuals to process their emotions, build resilience, and develop strategies to face life’s challenges. Trauma affects everyone differently, and what seems like a minor issue to one person can feel very overwhelming to another. By normalising the act of seeking professional help at any stage after a traumatic event such as a road crash, we create a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their feelings- regardless of how “big” or “small” they may seem. Access to counselling ensures that everyone has the support they need to find their own path through this journey.
Myth 3: “Only physical injuries need support”.
Finally, a common misconception following events like road crashes is the belief that support is only necessary for physical injuries. While physical injuries are often visible and prioritised, the emotional and psychological impacts of trauma can be just as debilitating, if not more.
Trauma, grief, anxiety, depression and fear can linger long after physical wounds have healed, impacting your day-to-day life, relationships, work and overall wellbeing. Ignoring the psychological and emotional side of recovery can delay healing and lead to feelings of isolation or being misunderstood.
Seeking psychological support is as important as treating physical injuries. Counselling and psychological services provide tools to process the invisible wounds from trauma, supporting individuals to navigate their emotions and rebuild their sense of safety and confidence. Recognising your emotional recovery is equally important and supports a more compassionate path to healing.
Understanding these myths is a helpful step in breaking down barriers to healing and ensuring that anyone on this journey feels validated and empowered to take the necessary steps towards recovery.
