Trauma Aware: 7 Days to More Biblical and Empathic CareSample

Day 5: The Three Stages of Recovery: Stage 3

Integration and Reconnection

The last stage comes after meaning has been determined during the processing stage. This meaning can now be integrated into how the person goes about living their everyday life, with the goal of diminishing the negative impact trauma has had. When meaning is established, it informs the thought processes and beliefs. The person begins to see that the Spirit helps them and intercedes for them when they have no words (Romans 8:26-27) and that God does indeed intend to work all things for the good (Romans 8:28) and the good is that, no matter what happens, God uses it to make us more like Jesus (Romans 8:29), thus restoring hope despite the pain, challenges, and wounds.

This stage will include reconnecting and integrating with relationships and routines that were disrupted by the trauma. As a person begins to re-engage in life in a meaningful and healthy way, they experience post-traumatic growth and change. Some relationships may be forever changed due to trauma, but a person can learn to wisely understand and appreciate the need for these changes and embrace them as part of their healthy new normal.

As a person moves into this stage of integration and reconnection, care can involve exploring personal values and convictions, thus deepening a confident hope in the Lord. It can include developing a commitment to personal growth, taking the time to do some deeper processing through journaling, or telling their story. It may even include embracing what forgiveness looks like for their circumstance. Being connected to a community is incredibly valuable, and the church plays an important part here. Encourage engagement in small groups, Bible studies, or other community settings in the church where connections can be made. Because trauma care is complex and individuals process trauma differently, suggestions or interventions should be based on the unique needs and circumstances of each person. Great wisdom and discernment are needed by the one providing this support so the care can be tailored according to the needs of the person and their situation.

More Than Three Stages

A traumatized person’s healing relies on the three stages of safety, processing, and integration, yet it is important to emphasize that it is not limited to them. There are various additional means the Lord uses to bring help and healing. Through the process of establishing safety, walking through processing, and working toward integration and reconnection, individuals can delve into the depths of their experience and gradually unravel the complexities of the emotional memories and responses tied to their trauma. Knowing these three stages is a vital part of understanding what care is needed for a traumatized individual and where they are in the healing process.