Counseling For Trauma
Almost everyone will experience trauma in their lifetime. In an instant our lives can change significantly from an event. Some examples can include, but are not limited to the following: sexual abuse or assault, verbal abuse, physical abuse, domestic violence, hate crimes, death, natural disaster, divorce, loss, exposure to violence and war, car accidents, or physical injuries and illnesses.
All of these experiences can lead to symptoms of trauma or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Behavioral
- Avoidance of activities or places that trigger memories of the event
- Social isolation and withdrawal
- Lack of interest in activities that were once enjoyable
Physical
- Easily startled
- Fatigue and exhaustion
- Tachycardia
- Edginess
- Insomnia
- Chronic muscle patterns
- Sexual dysfunction
- Changes in sleeping and eating patterns
- Vague complaints of aches and pains throughout the body
- Extreme alertness; always on the lookout for warnings of potential danger
Cognitive
- Intrusive thoughts of the event that may occur out of the blue
- Nightmares
- Visual images of the event
- Loss of memory and concentration abilities
- Disorientation
- Confusion
- Mood swings
Psychological
- Overwhelming fear
- Obsessive and compulsive behaviors
- Detachment from other people and emotions
- Emotional numbing
- Depression
- Guilt – especially if one lived while others perished
- Shame
- Emotional shock
- Disbelief
- Irritability
- Anger
- Anxiety
- Panic attacks
Some people may be able to move beyond this experience with the help of family, friends, and a strong support network. However, people who do not have these resources often end up feeling very alone. This can lead to an increasing inability to cope, function daily, or maintain regular routines. Relationships might suffer and one might find it hard to think straight. There might even be a greater risk for depression or substance abuse.
There is hope. You can break free from symptoms of trauma or childhood trauma with the help of a therapist. When you begin therapy, the goal is to make you feel comfortable, supported, and safe so you can begin the healing process. Therapy can help recognize the complex ways trauma impacts your life on a daily basis. You will be able to process your experiences and navigate difficult emotions in an environment that is safe for you and free of judgement. If you want to work on your trauma, you will work harder than you have ever worked in your life before, but it will be worth it to restore a sense of safety within yourself, your relationships, and in the world at large. If you or someone you know is struggling with trauma, call Sugar Grove Wellness, LLC today to start the healing process.
