Supporting Someone in Trauma
Practical guidance for family, friends, pastors, and support groups caring for someone in emotional distress.
For Family & Friends
Your role matters more than you realize.
People in trauma need:
- • emotional safety
- • patience
- • consistency
- • listening without judgment
- • space to process
- • assurance they're not alone
Helpful phrases:
- "I'm here with you."
- "You're safe."
- "You're not alone."
- "I won't rush you."
Avoid minimizing statements like:
- "You're overreacting"
- "Just move on"
For Churches & Ministries
Trauma-informed ministry means:
- • avoiding spiritual pressure or shame
- • creating emotionally safe environments
- • understanding triggers
- • using scripture with compassion
- • validating emotional wounds
- • supporting inner healing
- • avoiding toxic positivity
- • recognizing nervous system overwhelm
The church should be the safest place for the wounded.
For Community Support Groups
Groups help survivors rebuild by offering:
- • empathy
- • peer encouragement
- • understanding emotional patterns
- • gentle accountability
- • faith-based insight
- • consistent support
Healing happens in community.
You Don't Have to Be a Professional to Make a Difference
Sometimes the most healing thing you can offer is simply your presence, patience, and the reminder that they are not alone.