Understanding trauma: what it is and effective treatment options

Summary

Trauma is something that should not be ignored by any of us. In this article, we'll explore how trauma can affect your life and look for ways to help you deal with its negative consequences. We've also included resources for those needing more information or assistance managing their trauma.

Trauma is a serious issue that requires trauma therapy. An estimated 90% of adults in the United States have experienced a traumatic event at least once in their lives. Trauma can result from major life events such as being in a combat zone, sexual assault or living through a natural disaster, or more pervasive experiences like an abuse-filled childhood. The event or circumstance can have lasting adverse effects on the individual’s mental, physical, emotional, social and spiritual well-being.

After a traumatic event or repeated trauma, people can experience a wide range of physical and emotional reactions. There’s no right or wrong way to think, feel or respond to trauma.

Symptoms

Some initial trauma reactions include:

  • Exhaustion.
  • Confusion.
  • Sadness.
  • Anxiety.
  • Agitation.
  • Numbness.
  • Disassociation.

Trauma also can raise cortisol in the body to toxic levels, ultimately leading to increased risks of health conditions such as depression or heart disease. Trauma’s psychological effects can disrupt the individual’s day-to-day life with:

  • Depression.
  • Anxiety.
  • Anger.
  • Intense fear.
  • Flashbacks
  • Paranoia.

People who’ve experienced trauma also can suffer from altered perceptions, a belief that the world around them is unsafe, or that other people are dangerous. In extreme cases, they may create altered personalities just to help them cope with the trauma.

Reoccurring symptoms

Symptoms may not appear until several months or even years later. They include reexperiencing trauma through distressing memories of the event, flashbacks, nightmares, emotional detachment and avoidance of places, people and activities that are reminders of the trauma. People can have difficulty sleeping and concentrating, feel jumpy, be easily irritated or angered and experience changes in mood.

Trauma therapy

To find reliable treatment options, take the time to search “trauma therapy” and “evidence-based treatments” online. Trauma therapy is the first line of treatment in dealing with post-traumatic

stress disorder and trauma. Evidence-based treatments can help, and a relationship with a trusted provider or therapist can make a big difference. If you are suffering from a traumatic event, reach out today for help and healing.

Trauma resources

Talk to your insurance provider or health plan representative to start the process of accessing trauma therapy. You also have these resources available to you:

2 Comments. Leave new

  • Angela trumbauer
    January 29, 2023 7:04 am

    If you can find me an experienced trauma psychologist certified in EMDR, then please let me know. Medford area is a desert of qualified medical and mental heath services. So far the only decent care was at Asante ER. Badly need all ids of doctors and psychologists!!

    Reply
    • Avatar photo
      Asante Editorial Staff
      January 30, 2023 4:52 pm

      Asante offers outpatient psychological care in Medford. You may try calling (541) 789-4078 to see if our providers offer EMDR treatment for trauma.

      Reply

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