When trauma occurs, the body’s natural coping mechanisms may be overwhelmed. This may lead to a feeling of shock, disorientation and numbness. Typically, these reactions are temporary and designed to protect the body and mind. However, when they last too long or are extremely severe, they may indicate that a person has an underlying condition known as a Trauma Related Disorder. Symptoms of trauma-related disorders include depression, anxiety and fear, nightmares, avoidance and physical symptoms, such as fatigue or digestive issues.
Trauma related disorders often develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event that may involve actual or threatened death, serious injury, sexual violation and more. Some examples are childhood abuse, wartime experiences, car accidents, robberies, natural disasters and terrorist attacks. Some people experience secondhand trauma as well, when they hear about the traumatic experiences of others. For example, social workers who deal with abused children or therapists who support victims of sexual assault often experience this type of emotional strain.
If you know someone who has a traumatic history, you can help them find treatment. However, do not push them to talk about the experience unless they are ready. Instead, offer to attend their medical appointments and encourage them to seek treatment as soon as they are able.
A therapist will use various techniques to help treat the underlying trauma related disorders. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has been proven to be an effective treatment for these disorders, as it helps the patient to recognize and challenge negative thoughts related to the traumatic events. Additionally, a therapist will teach the patient how to engage in relaxation training exercises that will improve their overall health and wellbeing.
The therapist will also help the client to identify any potential triggers and learn ways to cope when they occur. These could be anything from a smell, sound, feeling or other characteristic that resembles or reminds the individual of the traumatic event. This can include revisiting the place where the traumatic event occurred, seeing the same dog breed that bit them or having a particular time of year bring back memories of the traumatic incident.
It is important to remember that the recovery process from a trauma-related disorder takes time and dedication. The therapist will help the client to reduce their feelings of stress, anxiety and fear, and to learn healthy ways to cope with the negative emotions. Ultimately, the client will be able to move forward with their life and enjoy it more fully. This is true even when the trauma is from a single event, or even multiple events that occurred early in life. PTSD is a common but manageable condition. The right therapist can make all the difference.
