What is Trauma?
Each individual processes a traumatic event in their own unique manner. What might have minimal effect on one person could evoke significant distress in another. Trauma arises from a psychological injury or wound triggered by the encounter with a deeply distressing or terrifying incident, such as an accident, sexual assault, or natural catastrophe. This traumatic occurrence can be a singular, life-altering event or a recurring experience that unfolds over an extended duration. Amidst these events, individuals and those around them might confront life-threatening jeopardy, leading to feelings of being overwhelmed, fear, helplessness, and hopelessness.
Symptoms associated with Trauma
Experiencing shock, denial, fatigue, confusion, sorrow, anxiety, and emotional numbness immediately following a traumatic event is considered normal. Lingering symptoms might encompass headaches, nausea, flashbacks, fluctuating emotions, social withdrawal, and strained relationships. Although these feelings are typical, most individuals can find solace and recovery within a few days or weeks through the assistance of their family or friends. Yet, for some, symptoms can persist more intensely and over an extended period, impeding their progression.
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Several factors contribute to an individual's ability to manage the aftermath of a traumatic event, including the event's nature, available support systems, personality traits, prior experiences with stressors, and current coping mechanisms. Those grappling with prolonged and severe symptoms might resort to avoidance or withdrawing from social interactions as a means of alleviating trauma-linked anxiety. Regrettably, this often results in further isolation from crucial support networks such as family and friends.
What has research shown us?
Research highlights that trauma can have far-reaching effects on brain functioning, particularly on memory and concentration, precipitating a range of mental and physical health challenges. One prevalent aftermath of a traumatic experience is the manifestation of hyperarousal or hypervigilance. Hyperarousal stems from biological adaptations geared toward self-preservation, ensuring the body remains primed for protection. This state can give rise to sleep disturbances, muscular tension, and a lowered threshold for startle responses, traits that can persist for an extended period following the traumatic incident. Furthermore, it can lead to heightened reactions in situations falsely perceived as perilous, even when no actual danger is present.
How we can assist?
Psychologists are equipped to aid such individuals in discovering effective methods to handle or alleviate these intense emotions through a diverse range of techniques and treatments. These include educating the individual on how trauma can influence both their physiological and psychological well-being. By imparting emotion regulation techniques, enhancing their recognition of emotional dysregulation, and applying systematic desensitisation methods, psychologists can contribute to diminishing the distress associated with the traumatic event.