Despite the overwhelming odds against them, many people who suffer a traumatic event or experience a loss of loved ones manage to overcome their experiences and thrive. Researchers such as Lawrence Calhoun and Richard Tedeschi have coined the term posttraumatic growth (PTG) to describe this positive psychological change, which goes beyond merely surviving a trauma and returning to one's pre-trauma state. PTG requires a level of stress that is significant but not excessive and can lead to a number of potential positive changes in mind, body, and spirit.
Some of these changes include an enhanced appreciation for life, a sense of meaning, and a more spiritual worldview. The change in outlook can also foster new ways of relating to other people, a more accepting attitude toward suffering, and increased compassion for others. A deeper awareness of one's own vulnerabilities and strengths can also emerge from the process. Psychologists who study the concept of posttraumatic growth have identified five core areas that can serve as indicators of thriving: a reconsideration of core beliefs, an appreciation of paradox (e.g., that in loss there can be gain, that vulnerability is a strength), the development of a new life narrative, and experiments with new ways of living.
Research on PTG has also shown that the thriving response tends to be more common among those who are open to experience and extraverted, which is consistent with the theory that individuals are more likely to grow from a traumatic experience if they are able to integrate it into their lives. Those who struggle with depression and anxiety may have a harder time finding growth from their adversity, but they can still benefit from treatment that includes cognitive behavioral therapy to help them assimilate their trauma into their overall life story.
In addition, those who find growth from their trauma are often more empathetic and understanding of other people's struggles, says clinical psychologist Matthew Scult, a trauma expert at Talkspace, an online therapy platform. He adds that individuals can increase their chances of thriving by seeking out the support of a trained therapist and taking part in group therapy with other survivors of trauma.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, look for role models, both in the community and in the business world, who have emerged from their own challenging circumstances stronger, inspired, and more resilient. Identify how they have changed their attitudes and procedures and how their organizational culture has evolved in the face of adversity. Study and learn from these stories so that you can develop a plan for your own post-trauma transformation. In addition, encourage your employees to seek out resources and support for themselves and those they care about. Together, you can create a more resilient organization and emerge from the pandemic with a more hopeful view of the future. You may be surprised at how much you and your team will grow in the process.
