Refacing my Trauma
Trauma and Stress Disorders
In my experience working with clients in Durban, there unfortunately seems to be many people living with symptoms of trauma and requiring treatment for PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) and other stress disorders even years after the traumatic event.
Trauma disorders are a serious mental health concern that often stems from distressing events or experiences. As a therapist who assists with providing trauma therapy and healing techniques, I understand the importance of providing insight into trauma disorders, their symptoms, and the transformative journey towards healing and recovery.
What are Trauma or Stress Disorders?
Trauma disorders are psychological conditions that arise from experiencing or witnessing traumatic events. These events can range from accidents and natural disasters to violence, abuse, and loss. In essence, any experiences where a person witnesses real or threatened death can trigger trauma disorders such as PTSD. The effects of trauma can linger long after the initial experience, impacting mental and emotional well-being. In Durban's diverse and dynamic community, understanding trauma disorders is crucial for fostering healing techniques and overcoming trauma.
Common Symptoms of Trauma Disorders:
1. Flashbacks and Intrusive Memories:
Vivid and distressing recollections of the traumatic event, often leading to sudden and overwhelming flashbacks.
2. Nightmares and Sleep Disturbances:
Frequent nightmares that re-enact the trauma, leading to disrupted sleep patterns and sleeplessness.
3. Avoidance Behavior:
An intense desire to avoid reminders, places, or situations associated with the traumatic event, sometimes leading to isolation.
4. Hyperarousal:
A heightened state of alertness and reactivity, characterized by irritability, difficulty concentrating, and an exaggerated startle response.
5. Negative Thoughts and Mood:
Persistent negative beliefs about oneself, others, and the world, accompanied by feelings of guilt, shame, anger, or sadness. Victim-blaming or the tendency of those who experienced trauma to blame themselves is a significant example of this.
6. Emotional Numbness:
Feeling emotionally detached or numb, as a way of coping with the overwhelming feelings associated with trauma. Victims of trauma will often experience a change in how they feel.
7. Physical Symptoms:
Trauma can manifest physically through headaches, muscle tension, stomach issues, and other stress-related symptoms.
9. Hypervigilance:
Constantly scanning the environment for potential threats, leading to heightened anxiety and exhaustion.
Seeking Healing Techniques or Trauma Therapy:
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of trauma disorder or PTSD, seeking therapy or help from an experienced psychologist is a vital step towards healing. Trauma counselling, therapy and healing techniques can guide individuals through a personalized healing process, helping them regain a sense of control and empowerment consequentially overcoming their trauma.
Therapeutic Approaches for Trauma:
1. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT):
CBT can assist in identifying and challenging negative thought patterns associated with the trauma, leading to improved coping mechanisms. This is a form of therapy I personally have experience in and use often.
2. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques:
Learning mindfulness and relaxation techniques can aid in managing anxiety and stress triggered by trauma reminders. This is one of the modalities I use often in my practice.
3. Trauma-Focused Therapy:
Specialized therapies like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) can help process traumatic memories and reduce distressing symptoms. I have experience in EFT Tapping techniques which fall under this section.
4. Group Therapy:
Group settings can provide a sense of community and shared understanding for individuals who have experienced similar traumas.
5. Schema Therapy:
A personal favourite of mine is Schema Therapy- a modality I am experienced and trained in. Schema Therapy contextualises responses, emotions, beliefs and behaviours within early experiences. It attempts to replace unhealthy coping strategies (or modes) with healthier ones. This is effective at dealing with symptoms of trauma.
Healing techniques and trauma therapy from trauma is a journey of transformation valuable in overcoming trauma. Incorporating self-care practices, seeking professional help, and fostering connections with loved ones can pave the way for reclaiming one's sense of safety and resilience.
Conclusion:
Trauma disorders may cast a shadow, but they don't define who you are. Instead of avoiding or ignoring symptoms which will inevitably force the individual to reface their trauma later, it is advised to deal with treating trauma and PTSD symptoms early. As a dedicated psychologist in Durban, I am committed to guiding you on your journey towards healing and empowerment. No matter the source of trauma, you can rewrite your story with strength and resilience. Reach out to Brandon Kayat Psychology today to begin your path to reclaiming your mental well-being and embark on your transformational journey towards a brighter future.
