Trauma

Trauma is defined as an emotional response to a distressing event. There is no one definition for what constitutes a traumatic event as people experience pain and suffering in different ways. Two people may experience the same event but have completely different reactions and responses. For one person, it may be traumatic and really impact their lives, for another it may not. Trauma can be one significant event in your life, such as a car accident, it can also be an accumulation of smaller incidents, such as being bullied at school or work. Here are some ways that trauma can manifest, both emotionally and physically:

-       Confusion and disbelief 

-       Difficulty concentrating 

-       Anger, irritability and mood swings

-       Flashbacks 

-       Guilt and shame 

-       Anxiety like symptoms:

• Increased heart rate

• Difficulty breathing

• Tremors in the hands or legs

• General restlessness,

• Feeling sick in the stomach 

-       Depression like symptoms:

• Feelings of hopelessness

• Low mood

• Flat mood

• Trouble sleeping

• Withdrawing from others or isolating

• Feeling flat or disconnected 

Experiencing trauma can lead to a number of symptoms, and if untreated can develop into a number of mental health illnesses or conditions. Untreated trauma can severely impact ones overall wellbeing. 

Check out our blog post next week for some strategies in helping deal with symptoms of trauma and what to expect out of a session with a psychologist who’s treating trauma. It is important that you seek out professional help.  Feel free to contact us on 8838-8687 or book an appointment online and come in to see one of our friendly Psychologists.