In the last few weeks, I have attended events commemorating life-changing or traumatic events, and heard from people who have chosen or been able to change their lives and move on positively from their trauma. They have managed to “make lemonade out of lemons”.

Psychology statistics (Hadassah Hospital, Dr Shiri Ben-David) evidences that post-traumatic growth is actually far greater than post-traumatic stress, by at least 2:1, which is interesting as PTG is far less publicised than PTSD.

I have been reflecting this week on the many members we have at Mavar who have experienced traumatic events, and how so many manage to emerge with hope, love, and purpose for the future, in spite of adverse experiences.

I think one of the most common themes of recovery I hear and experience is that of having a good support system around you. When there is supportive family, a close circle of friends, good access to essential services, such as education, health, and social care, this can help deliver the positive outcomes we all want.

When leaving a closed, tightly-controlled community or environment, it is frequently impossible to do that and keep family and community ties. This can be hugely distressing and increase your vulnerability.

At Mavar, we are committed to working with people who seek our support, so they can have enough support to work out what they need and how we can help them achieve their goals. Sometimes this is very little, and sometimes this support can continue for years. Sometimes members leave their original communities, and sometimes they are able to remain, whilst achieving greater personal choice and independence.

The stories I heard over the last few weeks about life before and after a life-changing event echoed with hope and resilience. The theme repeating itself the most centred around gratitude for being given a second chance, and determination to make that chance count, wherever that took the person.

Life is precious and we don’t always need a life-threatening event to teach us that.