How Mindfulness and Self-Compassion Interventions are used for Trauma 

"These results highlight that trauma-sensitive interventions could be combined with mindfulness and self-compassion interventions to address the unique presenting clinical problems of those who experienced trauma."

A recent survey by the World Health Organization indicated that 70% of the population experience some level of trauma exposure. Past trauma exposure increases the likelihood of developing other mental health disorders, somatic disorders, and even post-traumatic stress disorder. Even more troubling, exposure to trauma increases the risk of future trauma. Given the high prevalence rate in the community, there is a pressing need to develop trauma-sensitive interventions that address trauma-related symptoms. 

One study conducted in Norway recruited seventeen participants who presented with trauma-related symptoms such as PTSD, complex post-traumatic stress disorder, dissociative symptoms, and self-critique. These participants joined a 16-week trauma-sensitive mindfulness and compassion intervention to learn contemplative techniques that could help them uniquely manage their trauma. In addition to self-reported questionnaires, participants also were involved in qualitative interviews that addressed their experience. 

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Photo by Jared Rice Via Unsplash

The study learned that the participants had a significant decrease in PTSD, complex PTSD, dissociative symptoms, and self-hatred. Importantly, participants reported adverse experiences or unintentional negative effects, however, these symptoms had no lasting impact. These results highlight that trauma-sensitive interventions could be combined with mindfulness and self-compassion interventions to address the unique presenting clinical problems of those who experienced trauma. Although there were adverse effects, future research has the opportunity to fine-tune these interventions to understand better how to mitigate such risks. Compassion and mindfulness might be valuable tools in therapy to help the majority of the population who face similar symptoms. 

Ritika Kureel

Ritika Kureel holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Amity University, Uttar Pradesh, India. With a passion for understanding the complexities of the human mind, she is dedicated to applying her skills to support mental well-being. Ritika currently serves as a counselor in an organization that collaborates with Teach for India, where she helps guide young minds toward better emotional health. In her free time, she enjoys dancing, which brings her joy and balance.

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