Trauma changes us. But what if it could change us for the better?
As a graduate student in clinical mental health counseling—and someone who has walked through addiction recovery and trauma firsthand—I’ve experienced what psychologists call post-traumatic growth (PTG). In this article, we’ll explore real-life examples of post-traumatic growth, backed by neuroscience and clinical insight, to show how healing and transformation are not only possible but measurable. In this article, you’ll find:
- A 5-step “brain reset” protocol based on neuroscience
- 7 real-life examples of post-traumatic growth (from Olympians to entrepreneurs)
- How BDNF and mindset development physically rewire traumatized brains
“After my opioid addiction, I thought I’d never recover. Today, I study how trauma survivors like Ryan Lochte and Rhian Mannings use PTG to thrive. Here’s what works.”
✨ What is Post-Traumatic Growth?
Post-traumatic growth refers to the positive psychological change that can occur as a result of struggling with highly challenging life circumstances. Unlike resilience, which helps us “bounce back,” PTG allows us to bounce forward into a new level of awareness, strength, and purpose (Tedeschi & Calhoun, 2004). For more infographics on PTG, visit here.
Five Common Domains of PTG:
- Appreciation for Life – A deeper gratitude for everyday moments
- Improved Relationships – Clearer boundaries, deeper empathy
- Personal Strength – “If I survived that, I can survive anything.”
- Spiritual Development – A greater sense of purpose or faith
- New Possibilities – Career changes, new passions, service work
Key Insight: PTG isn’t denial. It’s acknowledging pain while choosing growth—a skill rooted in neuroplasticity.
But how does this actually look in real lives? Let’s examine cases where trauma became fuel.
🔍 Real-Life Examples of Post-Traumatic Growth
1. Rhian Mannings: Turning Grief into Support for Others
In 2012, Rhian Mannings faced unimaginable loss when her infant son died suddenly, followed by her husband’s suicide just days later. Amidst her grief, she founded “2 Wish Upon A Star,” a charity supporting families dealing with sudden child loss. Over 3,300 individuals have been helped by her efforts, showing how personal tragedy can create deep community impact. You can watch Rhian’s story here.
2. Dr. Goobie: Rebuilding Life After Burnout
After years as a neurosurgeon, Dr. Goobie faced emotional burnout and left medicine. Choosing nature, music, and self-reflection, he crafted a more meaningful life. His story reminds us that walking away from what no longer serves you can make space for personal growth.
3. Ryan Lochte: Overcoming Adversity After a Near-Fatal Car Accident
In November 2023, Olympic gold medalist Ryan Lochte was involved in a severe car crash. As he recovered from injuries and depression, he reframed his journey as a comeback. With support, therapy, and mindset development, he found renewed purpose—demonstrating PTG in action.
4. Tom Nash (DJ Hookie): Redefining Life After Meningococcal Disease
After losing his limbs to meningococcal disease as a teen, Tom Nash rebuilt his life as a successful DJ. Opting for metal hooks over prosthetics, Nash challenges perceptions of disability and embodies post-traumatic growth through creativity and resilience.
5. Michael Dadashi: From Heroin Addiction to Entrepreneurial Success
Starting heroin use at 15, Michael Dadashi’s addiction continued into adulthood. After rehab, he founded MHD Enterprises and later Infinite Recovery. By hiring others in recovery, he turned his pain into purpose, showing how healing fosters transformation.
6. Brian Hamilton: Empowering Former Inmates Through Entrepreneurship
Brian Hamilton, co-founder of Sageworks, launched “Inmates to Entrepreneurs” to mentor formerly incarcerated individuals. His work supports second chances and helps others discover purpose after trauma.
7. My Story: From Addiction to Advocacy
Years ago, I was lost in opioid addiction. Today, I’m clean, studying neuroscience and counseling, and building a life of service and storytelling. My trauma didn’t just leave scars—it shaped the mission I now live.
🔁 Neuroplasticity: How to Rewire Your Brain After Trauma
Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to adapt. This means your thought patterns, emotional habits, and even identity can be reshaped over time.
5 Simple Steps to Rewire Your Brain:
- Mindset Development – Shift your inner narrative: “Why did this happen to me?” becomes “What can this mean for me?”
- Journaling & Gratitude – Trains your brain to scan for the positive
- Intentional Repetition – Revisit empowering beliefs daily
- Exercise – Aerobic movement = BDNF booster
- Rest & Nutrition – Your brain heals best when it’s nourished
Key Takeaways: Your PTG Roadmap
- PTG occurs in 5 domains
- Real-life examples prove growth is possible
- Neuroplasticity = hope: Your brain can rewire via mindset, BDNF habits, and repetition
🙏 Final Thoughts: Growth After Trauma is Real—and You’re Proof
You are not broken—you are becoming. Whether you’re recovering from addiction, childhood abuse, betrayal, or any other form of deep hurt, know this: the science supports your healing. The spirit affirms it. And I’ve walked it myself.
You don’t have to be who trauma made you. You can be who healing is calling you to become.
Risa
