It is something that happens to us, out of the blue, without warning. And it completely changes our trajectory on life.

Trauma is one of those things; it can happen to anyone. It can happen to kids, it can happen to adults, men, women, trans, LGBTI, racial minorities.

Despite its negative connotation, trauma can bind us – it’s a uniquely human experience. It is one of those things that we share, across borders and across emotional distance. Trauma can manifest in myriad different ways, depending on the person.

It’s nearly impossible to predict how it may rear its ugly head in each individual.

But, it’s important to know that when dealing with and going through trauma – you’re not alone.

One of the more common forms of trauma is road trauma. Crashes happen every day and, as sad as it is to report, there are often fatal crashes on Tasmanian roads.

The Road Trauma Support Service can help people who are experiencing trauma as a result of a road crash.

They provide invaluable support through counselling services – with a qualified counsellor. Studies have proven that talking your way through trauma is an effective way to begin the healing process, but it doesn’t always work if you talk to your family.

One of the ways that using a counsellor helps is because they are a stranger.

They know strategies to help you but they provide a non-judging, safe place to talk about your feelings and how you’re coping.

There is still a long way for us to go before we completely understand mental health and trauma but taking the baby steps towards a positive goal is one way we can help ourselves. It is not healthy to bottle up emotions – especially if prior to experiencing trauma it was not your usual state of mind. Take that step and pick up the phone, there is always someone there to lend a listening ear.

If you need help contact the Road Trauma Support Centre via landline 6777 6252, mobile 0427 487 251 (SMS welcome) or online. Lifeline is also available 24/7 on 131 1444