Most people will experience trauma in their lifetime whether it’s a car accident, abuse or neglect, the sudden death of a loved one, a violent criminal act, exposure to the violence of war, or a natural disaster.
While many people can recover from trauma over time with the love and support of family and friends and bounce back with resiliency, others may discover effects of lasting trauma, which can cause a person to live with deep emotional pain, fear, confusion, or posttraumatic stress far after the event has passed.
In these circumstances, the support, guidance and assistance of a therapist is fundamental to healing from trauma.
Trauma Symptoms
According to the four types of symptoms listed in the DSM-5
Avoidance Symptoms
- Avoiding specific locations, sights, situations, and sounds that serve as reminders of the event
- Anxiety, depression, numbness, or guilt
Re-experiencing Symptoms
- Intrusive thoughts, nightmares or flashbacks
Hyperarousal Symptoms
- Anger, irritability and hypervigilance
- Aggressive, reckless behavior, including self-harm
- Sleep disturbances
Negative Mood and Cognition Symptoms
- Loss of interest in activities that were once considered enjoyable
- Difficulty remembering details of the distressing event
- Change in habits or behavior since the trauma
Trauma can impact us in ways we may not fully be aware of. Many people minimize the traumatic events they have experienced, and will frequently blame themselves, believe they should have “handled it better”, or that one’s reactions to reminders of traumatic events are an “over-reaction” that they should be ashamed about. Trauma is sometimes described as “a normal response to abnormal events”, and until we can make sense of the event(s) we experienced, and are able to regain a sense of security and ability to navigate the world and take on risks, we remain highly tuned into any and all potential risks or threats, and we stay primed to respond. Research has proven psychotherapy to be the most effective form of treatment for trauma. I have extensive experience working with people to heal from all types of trauma, including generational family of origin, complex, relational, and attachment trauma.
If you or someone you know match the trauma symptoms listed above, I am confident that I can help and invite you to contact me today for a free consultation.
317-316-0966 | hello@corecounselingandwellness.com