Deep Exploration: Psychological Trauma

Psychological trauma, also sometimes referred to as emotional trauma, is a very real phenomenon that affects many people in different ways throughout life.

There are many potential causes of psychological trauma and a variety of possible reactions. Although I am certainly not an expert in this field, we all have experienced some level of trauma, so it is a relevant topic to everyone and can be addressed from a variety of perspectives.

No matter your relationship to this topic, we could all benefit from further exploration, so let’s take some time to address psychological trauma: some causes, symptoms and treatment options!

Disclaimer: The information contained within this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. If you are experiencing mental health issues, please seek appropriate medical attention.

What is Psychological Trauma?

Psychological trauma is a type of trauma that affects the psyche–our mental and emotional states of being. There are many types of psychological trauma ranging from the more obvious catastrophe-related trauma to the less obvious, insidious forms of trauma. Trauma can arise from everyday stressors or can be brought upon in an instant by a shocking event.

Symptoms

Everyone processes trauma differently and there is no one ‘normal’ way to respond to it. However, it is very common to experience at least one of these traits following a traumatic incident. These may include:

• nightmares 👹

• graphic flashbacks 🥺

• fear 😨

• sudden mood shifts 🥴

• withdrawal 🧎

• insomnia 😴

• hyperawareness 😵

• OCD behaviors 😳

• anxiety 😓

• shame 😟

• guilt 😧

Common Causes of Psychological Trauma

There are many potential causes of psychological trauma, all with varying effects on those who undergo the experience. Some common ones may include:

• Natural disasters 🌋(earthquakes, sinkholes, mudslides, hurricanes, floods, etc.)

• Acts of violence ⚠️(child abuse, sexual abuse, war, invasions, suicide of a loved one, etc.)

• Accidents/injuries 🤕 (vehicle accident, sports injury, etc.)

• Religious dogma, faith-based beliefs, indoctrination 🛐

• Termination of an important relationship 💔 (break-up, divorce, shunning, etc.)

• Diagnosis of a life-threatening/disabling illness or condition 🏥

Treatment Options

There is so much more awareness, knowledge and acceptance now regarding the importance of mental health and thankfully plenty of resources available to address this issue. Between in-person and virtual therapy sessions, there are many options available to us now!

As a complementary therapy option to enhance well-being, consider learning more about ways you can regulate your own nervous system for readily available support.

❤️‍🩹 Learn more at: What is Nervous System Regulation? (healthisharmony.com)

Helpful Resources:

~The Body Keeps the Score | The Bookshelf (healthisharmony.com)

~https://www.journeyfree.org/rts/

~https://psychcentral.com/lib/lgbt-suicide-and-the-trauma-of-growing-up-gay#growing-up-lgbtqia

~https://psychology.uga.edu/coping-racial-trauma

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