Adversity can be an opportunity for growth as argued by philosopher Epictetus, who suggested that we have more control over our reactions to negative events. By treating problems as challenges to be overcome, individuals can learn and grow. While many personal challenges may seem trivial, facing severe traumas, like sudden loss, can lead to unexpected growth. Karen's story exemplifies post-traumatic growth, a phenomenon where individuals thrive after experiencing trauma, contrasting the commonly known post-traumatic stress disorder.
Karen Guggenheim was devastated by the death of her husband, Ricardo. She was alive, but dead to the world around her. Slowly she put her life back together and found growing happiness. To share her insights with others in need, Karen started the World Happiness Summit.
Karen's campaign to spread global happiness is just one example of "post traumatic growth". Clinical psychologist Dr Edith Shiro (author of The Unexpected Gift of Trauma) has worked with many people who have recovered from trauma and grown as a result. She explains how we can give ourselves the best possible chance to experience post traumatic growth.
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