Trauma is an emotional response to a terrible event, and someone who has been traumatized can feel a range of emotions both immediately after the event and in the long term. Trauma can have long-term effects, and if symptoms continue and do not decrease in severity, it can be an indication of a mental health disorder called post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Types of trauma:
- Acute Trauma – Result from a single stressful or dangerous event.
- Chronic Trauma – Results from repeated and prolonged exposure to a stressful events. Examples to include child abuse, domestic violence, and bullying.
- Complex Trauma – Results from exposure of multiple traumatic events.
Some symptoms include:
- Flashbacks
- Distressing Dreams
- Anger
- Negative beliefs
- Guilt/Shame
- Poor Concentration
- Avoidance
- Depression
- Anxiety
Post-traumatic stress disorder treatment can help you regain a sense of control over your life. The primary treatment is psychotherapy, but can also include medication. Combining these treatments can help improve your symptoms by:
- Teaching skills to address your symptoms
- Helping you think better about yourself, others and the world
- Learning ways to cope if symptoms arise again
- Treating other problems often related to traumatic experiences, such as depression, anxiety, or misuse of alcohol or drugs