Communication Skills for Healthy Relationships

Trauma can have a significant impact on the way we communicate with others, often leading to difficulties in relationships. Learning effective communication skills can help to improve relationships, build trust, and create a sense of safety. Here, we will explore some key communication skills that can be helpful for those who have experienced trauma.

Active Listening

Active listening involves fully focusing on and understanding what the other person is saying, without interruption or distraction. This skill can be especially helpful for those who have experienced trauma, as it can create a sense of safety and validation in communication. Active listening involves using open-ended questions, reflecting back what the other person has said, and summarizing the conversation to ensure understanding.

“I” Statements

“I” statements involve expressing one’s own thoughts, feelings, and needs in a non-blaming and non-confrontational way. This skill can help to reduce defensiveness and conflict in communication, and can also help to set healthy boundaries. An “I” statement involves stating the feeling or behavior, expressing its effect on you, and stating what you would like to see happen.

Validation

Validation involves acknowledging and accepting the other person’s thoughts and feelings, even if you do not agree with them. This skill can be especially helpful for those who have experienced trauma, as it can create a sense of safety and trust in communication. Validation involves listening actively, reflecting back what the other person has said, and acknowledging the other person’s feelings and experiences.

Boundaries

Paragraph: Setting and maintaining healthy boundaries is an important aspect of effective communication. Boundaries involve setting limits on what is acceptable behavior from others, and communicating those limits in a clear and assertive way. Healthy boundaries can help to create a sense of safety and respect in relationships.

Summary

Effective communication skills are an important tool for healing and building healthy relationships after trauma. Active listening, “I” statements, validation, and boundaries are key skills to develop and practice in communication.