If you think that terror attacks are only in the movies, you’re absolutely mistaken. According to statistics, more than 10,000 of them happened in 2020. Just imagine the threat now when life is back to usual. And the worst terror attack of all time hit none other than the seemingly safest places in the world- remember the 9/11 attacks?
You cannot consider yourself safe as an American, right? Well, you shouldn’t be a pessimist, but being prepared for the worst always makes sense. After all, the aftermath of such an event can be more than daunting. It’s not only about physical survival but also about mental and emotional recovery.
Having some essential life skills can help terror attack victims make a fresh start. You can rely on them to rebuild your life, regain a sense of control, and move ahead with confidence. So let’s dive in to help you learn more about these skills.
Start with self-care
Self-care is vital for terror attack survivors, and it’s more than a way of life. Consider it a skill that can help you deal with your trauma, anxiety, and negative feelings. After experiencing a terror event, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed and anxious.
Self-care basics like getting enough sleep and taking time for yourself help you relax and recharge. You must also create a routine that integrates regular exercise and meditation. Find the practices that work for you and stick to them. Also, surround yourself with positive people who uplift you.
Learn to detach
After a terror attack, you may carry the memories consciously or subconsciously. In fact, you may even want to stay informed, but constant exposure can get overwhelming and trigger anxiety. Learning to detach from the situation is the best way to deal with it and stay sane.
Try to limit your exposure to social media and news in the first place. You can do it by setting boundaries for yourself. Avoid checking updates and get information from reliable sources if you need it.
Be open to asking for help
Being open to seeking help is another life skill that helps terror attack victims to resume normalcy. For example, consider seeing a therapist and seeking assistance for emotional healing. They have the expertise, tools, and strategies to treat trauma victims.
Also, understand your legal rights and connect with a lawyer to claim compensation for your suffering. For instance, 9/11 victims can get assistance from 9/11 lawyers to get a claim under the Zadroga Act. Anyone battling severe diseases like cancer or respiratory illnesses can seek compensation under the act.
Master goal-setting
You may feel stuck after experiencing a traumatic event such as a terror attack. Everything seems to go haywire, from your health to your career and relationships. Life seems completely derailed, but goal-setting is a skill that can make all the difference.
Start small, go slow, and remember that progress takes time. You can make a comeback easily by setting milestones and celebrating your progress at every step. Over time, these small steps can take you toward bigger accomplishments and set you on the road to success.
Practice gratitude
Gratitude serves as a powerful tool for improving your outlook on life after a traumatic event. After going through a terror attack, you may think only about what you’ve lost. But practicing gratitude enables you to focus on what you still have.
Try taking time to acknowledge things you’re grateful for, such as living through the attack and having your loved ones around. Gratitude is a significant life skill that makes you a happier person in the long run.
Find purpose through helping others
Doing your bit to help others is another life skill you can imbibe to heal from a terror attack. Find ways to make a difference, such as volunteering at a local charity, speaking at events, or supporting others who have suffered trauma in similar situations.
You can even start a social media community to bring like-minded people to one place. Helping others can do more than provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment. It also creates meaningful connections with others.
The Takeaway
Recovering from a terror attack can be a long process, but remember that you’re not alone. Many victims and survivors have similar experiences, so you can find lots of inspiration all around. Healing is much about the right mindset. Keep your hopes up, and adopt the right mindset with these key life skills. You’ll be a winner in adversity once you make them a part of your existence!
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