Understanding Trauma and its Impact on Mental Health

What is Trauma?

Trauma is an emotional response to a distressing event. Trauma can impact you in various ways as your body struggles to process past events. It can affect you emotionally, physically, cognitively, and behaviorally. Trauma symptoms can last years after the event; however, with proper treatment, they can be well managed or disappear over time.

Symptoms of Trauma:

• Emotional: Experiencing negative emotions, feeling detached from others, struggles to feel positive emotions, irritability, difficulty concentrating, anger

• Physical: Insomnia, fatigue, headaches, changes in appetite, rapid heartbeat, and digestive issues

• Behavioral: Avoiding reminders of trauma, self-destructive behaviors, impulsivity, withdrawing from social interactions, decreased interest in significant activities,

• Cognitive: Flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, memory impairment, confusion and disorientation

How Do I Heal From Trauma?

The path to healing from trauma is a brave step but might also feel nerve-wracking. Seeking help through therapy with a mental health professional can help you process trauma in a safe and supportive environment. A therapist might aid with trauma-focused skills such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). It is important to consider meeting with a doctor for a medication evaluation to help create a treatment plan, manage side effects, and provide safety and support during the healing process.

Having a support system is another important step in healing from traumatic events. Support groups can help reduce feelings of isolation, and can be of comfort during difficult times.

It is essential to identify self-care strategies that resonate with you as a good self-care routine can significantly enhance your emotional well-being. Examples of effective self-care practices may include regular exercise, prioritizing your basic needs, maintaining a consistent and healthy routine, spending time in nature, engaging in meditation, reading, or practicing gratitude.

Trauma can deeply affect a person's life, but healing is possible. With therapy, taking care of yourself, and keeping a close support system, you can make efforts to balance everything that comes with trauma. Taking time, and giving yourself grace during this complex process is crucial.

If you're ready to take the next step in your healing journey, don't wait any longer. Reach out to us today to connect with a trauma-informed clinician who can provide the support and guidance you need. Together, we can work towards healing, growth, and a brighter future.