Most people will experience trauma in their lifetime whether it’s a car accident, abuse or neglect, the sudden death of a loved one, a violent criminal act, exposure to the violence of war, or a natural disaster. 

Trauma is always a violation of boundaries. This may happen in small ways repeated over time, for example a dismissive caregiver who makes us feel insignificant. While this may not always be easy to recognize as trauma, it can have lasting negative effects over time. 

Some people can recover from trauma over time with the love and support of family and friends and bounce back with resiliency. However it’s common to experience lasting effects of trauma long after the event occurred. This can cause a person to feel disconnected and detached, like they’re observing their life instead of living it. They may experience deep emotional pain, fear, confusion, or sometimes post-traumatic stress far after the event has passed.

In these circumstances, the support, guidance, and assistance of a therapist can be fundamental to healing from trauma.

Trauma Symptoms

According to the four types of symptoms listed in the DSM-5

Avoidance Symptoms

• Avoiding specific locations, sights, situations, and sounds that serve as reminders of the event
• Anxiety, depression, numbness, or guil

Re-experiencing Symptoms

• Intrusive thoughts, nightmares or flashbacks

Hyperarousal Symptoms

• Anger, irritability, and hypervigilance
• Aggressive, reckless behavior, including self-harm
• Sleep disturbances

Negative Mood and Cognition Symptoms

• Loss of interest in activities that were once considered enjoyable
• Difficulty remembering details of the distressing event
• Change in habits or behavior since the trauma

Research has proven psychotherapy to be the most effective form of treatment for trauma. Most commonly, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) are used in treating trauma. 

It’s possible to heal and experience life with more ease.

If you or someone you know matches the trauma symptoms listed above, I am confident that I can help and invite you to contact me today for a consultation.