When we hear the word “trauma” we tend to think of something that only veterans or victims of violent crimes experience. However, the truth is that trauma is a situation or event that will touch the lives of nearly everyone at some point during their lifetime.
It may be that you have experienced a traumatic event or perhaps over the years lived through struggles or situations that were upsetting, stressful or disturbing. Trauma expert Bessel van der Kolk M.D. defines trauma as “not the story of something that happened back then, but the current imprint of that pain, horror and fear living inside the individual.” These events can become embedded not only in our mind but also in our body and nervous system, leaving us feeling stuck in a constant state of helplessness, hyper vigilance and even overwhelming fear. When caught up in the web of trauma we can feel powerless and perpetually anxious and it can be difficult to navigate or even function in everyday life.
Common emotional responses to trauma are sadness, anger, denial, fear and shame. These emotions can lead to symptoms such as:
- Nightmares
- Insomnia
- Difficulty with relationships
- Emotional outbursts
Psychological disorders that can result from trauma may include:
- PTSD
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Dissociative disorders
- Substance abuse problems
“Our trained therapists can help you understand the trauma itself, identify your triggers and teach you specific skills to help you regulate your mood and nervous system. “
Trauma can stay present in our mind and body even though the event was long ago or our circumstances have improved. “Trauma” is a Greek word that translates to “wound,” like a scar that remains embedded in our physical, psychological and emotional bodies.
There is hope! Our trained therapists can help you understand the trauma itself, identify your triggers and teach you specific skills to help you regulate your mood and nervous system. You will then be able to move on and leave the residue of your painful experiences behind.
Each of us get to decide what we make of our experiences and how to shape our lives and our past should not be the thing to define us or dictate our future!
Reach out and let our skilled therapists help you release unresolved pain and heal.