Everyone responds to traumatic events differently. While one person may experience a trauma response within just a few days of a traumatic event, another may not notice symptoms or distress until months or even years after the event occurred. However, it’s important to understand that the effects of trauma will not go away if left untreated. If you’re experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after a traumatic event, qualified professionals can help you process your emotions and move forward with your life.
Reach out to My 5 Palms at 1.844.675.1022 to discuss our PTSD treatment program options and how we can help you overcome debilitating trauma.
How Is a Trauma Response Developed?
A trauma response is the way a person’s mind and body react to an overwhelming traumatic event. But you may be asking what kind of event qualifies as traumatic. Some examples of events that can lead to trauma are:
- Assaults
- Bullying
- Car accidents
- Military combat
- Natural disasters
- Death of a loved one
- Physical or emotional abuse
It’s important to note that this list is not exhaustive. A trauma response is based on how an individual experiences an event, and no two people are exactly alike. There may be an experience that was traumatic for you that perhaps wasn’t for someone else. You may also experience a trauma response whether you were personally involved in the event or witnessed it.
A trauma response can include symptoms like anxiety, anger, fear, dissociation, physical reactions, and numbness. These responses are your body’s way of coping with the overwhelming stress that a traumatic experience can cause.
What Does a Trauma Response Look Like?
The effects of trauma can impact multiple areas of your life and potentially cause significant disruption. Trauma can involve adverse effects like:
Avoidance
Fear of a reoccurrence of the inciting event may lead you to avoid any person, place, or activity that reminds you of the trauma you experienced. You might also practice avoidance to reduce the chances of sparking memories of the traumatic event.
Flashbacks
You may sometimes have very vivid or distressing memories of the traumatic event, even when you are not thinking about it. These can occur despite attempts to try not to think about what happened.
Hyperarousal
Trauma can cause you to constantly feel on edge or easily startled. It can also interfere with your ability to fall asleep or stay asleep.
Changes in Mood
Trauma can change the way you look at the world. You may feel more cynical or depressed and experience feelings of guilt or shame. It can also be difficult to develop and maintain healthy relationships.
Emotional and Physical Symptoms
Trauma can cause physical discomfort, like chronic headaches and digestive issues. It can also trigger emotional symptoms like irritability and mood swings.
Treatment for PTSD
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition caused by experiencing a traumatic event. If you are diagnosed with PTSD, your treatment may include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) – This form of therapy helps you identify and change negative thought patterns related to trauma.
- Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy – This is a type of trauma therapy that can help you process and reframe traumatic memories.
- Medication – Your healthcare provider may prescribe antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications to help you manage your symptoms.
- Self-care – Promoting relaxation through meditation, mindfulness, exercise, and other activities you enjoy can help you feel calmer and more balanced.
If you have been involved in or witnessed a traumatic event and are experiencing any of the above effects of trauma, you might have PTSD. Contact a mental health provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Reach Out to My 5 Palms for PTSD Treatment
Understanding what a trauma response is, the effects of trauma, and your treatment options for PTSD can get you started on your path toward healing. To learn more about how My 5 Palms can help you manage PTSD symptoms, reach out at 1.844.675.1022 or fill out our online contact form to speak to one of our friendly staff members.
