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Trauma isn’t just a rare occurrence; it’s more common than you might think. Studies show that up to 75% of Americans have faced trauma at some point in their lives. This can lead to mental health issues like depression, substance abuse, and PTSD. But that’s not all. Trauma can also harm your physical health, causing heart, lung, and liver problems. It can lead to unhealthy habits like smoking or overeating and affect your social and work life, reducing your overall quality of life.
When we undergo a traumatic experience, it is not just a mental struggle but also a physical one. Our bodies carry the weight of trauma, manifesting in overwhelming sensations. While our minds may attempt to move on logically, the impact on our bodies remains.
This internal struggle between mind and body is a constant reminder of the trauma’s enduring effects. It is important to note that even if individuals who have experienced trauma manage to accomplish a great deal, it does not mean they are not profoundly affected by the traumatic event.
Prior experiences of helplessness can compound the effects of trauma. If someone has previously felt powerless in their early life and then encounters another traumatic experience later on, those past feelings of helplessness can resurface, intensifying the impact. In this way, the effects of trauma can be cumulative, making the healing process complex and non-linear.
In understanding the effects of trauma on our lives, it is evident that nothing is ever simple or straightforward. The physical, emotional, and psychological toll of trauma can have far-reaching consequences. It is crucial to recognize the depth of these impacts and provide the necessary support and understanding for individuals who have experienced trauma.
Trauma is an emotional response to a terrible event like an accident, rape, or other violent acts, as well as a natural disaster. Longer-term reactions include unpredictable emotions, flashbacks, strained relationships, and even physical symptoms.
Traumatic exposure has been implicated as a risk factor for numerous mental disorders, including depression, substance abuse, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Trauma is also associated with such physical health problems as heart, chronic lung, and liver diseases. Negative health behaviors, such as smoking and overeating, poor social and occupational functioning, and overall decreased quality of life, are also common. It is the experience of being overwhelmed by the situation.
The reason is that we carry trauma in heartbreaking sensations that we feel in our bodies. When we experience a traumatic experience, our body feels crushed by the trauma, but the mind tries to be logical and move on. Thus, it becomes an internal struggle between mind and body.
People are survivors and will do whatever is necessary to move forward with their lives. Individuals may attempt to cope with the painful emotions associated with trauma by seeking ways to feel numb. This can lead to engaging in excessive use of substances, gaming, watching television, or other addictive behaviors as a means of escape.
However, these coping mechanisms often exacerbate the symptoms and problems related to trauma, leading to increased feelings of isolation and disconnection. It is important to seek healthier coping strategies such as therapy, support groups, self-care practices, and building a strong support network to address and manage the painful emotions associated with trauma effectively.
Even those who seem successful might still grapple with trauma’s effects. Our past experiences influence how we handle current trauma, making each person’s journey unique.
Healing is possible, though complex. As a psychologist, my goal is to guide you through this process. My trauma-focused therapy addresses PTSD and other trauma-related challenges. We work on emotional regulation, trust-building, and setting boundaries to create a safe space.
Trauma affects both mind and body. Your body might react physically to reminders of the trauma, which is where somatic therapy can help. We connect bodily sensations to the trauma, aiming to restore a healthy mind-body connection.
Therapy isn’t just about revisiting trauma. It’s about building coping skills, identifying triggers, and rewriting your narrative. With support and guidance, you can embark on a path to healing and self-discovery.
PTSD isn’t just for combat veterans. It affects anyone who’s faced a traumatic event. From personal assaults to natural disasters, these experiences can lead to PTSD.
Statistics reveal that 70% of American adults have experienced a significant traumatic event, and 20% of them develop PTSD. Women are twice as likely to suffer from PTSD compared to men. Common symptoms include nightmares, flashbacks, and hypervigilance.
The good news is that effective treatments are available. Remember, no trauma is too small, and everyone’s response is personal.
Grief isn’t just about losing a loved one. Trauma can trigger grief, too. It’s a complex mix of emotions, including sadness, anger, and confusion.
Trauma can shatter your sense of safety and trust, leading to emotional turmoil. Grieving a traumatic loss can be complicated, involving feelings of guilt, anxiety, and PTSD symptoms.
Understanding grief and trauma’s relationship helps provide better support for those navigating these emotions. It’s not a straightforward process, but with empathy and understanding, healing is possible.
When you work with Nisus Psychology, your story and experience will be validated and never judged. You will be treated with the dignity and respect you deserve. Together, we will help you integrate the traumatic experience, giving you a better sense of understanding and control over the experience.
There is no situation that we have not encountered. Dr Estupinina has worked with patients from the Center for Survivors of Torture to the Veterans Administration. She has worked with a host of complex post-traumatic syndrome disorders and associated issues.
Dr. Estupinian has also helped clients who have been victims of highly publicized crimes, shootings, natural disasters, and other severe tragedies. Often, these clients had to deal with the impact of the original trauma and withstand the ongoing ordeal of court proceedings and media inquiries that followed.
Working together, each of these clients was able to successfully navigate all the proceedings and rebuild their lives.
Each traumatic situation and its effects on a person are unique to that person. Our goal is always to work with the client to integrate back into their life and give them the peace they seek.
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