Psychological or emotional trauma from severely stressful, frightening, or distressing events can leave a lasting impact on the body and mind in ways that we can’t fully process on our own. 

Trauma can temporarily alter the brain, particularly the amygdala, hippocampus, and prefrontal cortex. These parts of our brains tell our bodies how to react to stimuli, form memories, and executive functions like decision-making, emotional regulation, and impulse control. 

Even though our brain is adapting itself with good intentions, it can leave us in a constant heightened state of alertness and feeling emotionally numb or dysregulated.

With therapy, we can help our old brains unlearn their new tricks and get back to feeling safe and in control.

Do I need trauma counseling?

Sometimes, we don’t realize that we’ve experienced a traumatic event or that we are experiencing symptoms of trauma. 

Any event, situation, or series of events that leaves you feeling isolated, afraid, or overwhelmed can result in trauma symptoms. 

Common forms of trauma that may indicate that you need trauma counseling include: 

• Domestic abuse, including physical and emotional
• Childhood abuse, including neglect 
• Sexual assault or abuse
• Abandonment
• Bullying
• Death of a loved one
• Chronic illnesses
• Accident or serious injuries
• Natural disasters 
• Divorce
• Job loss
• Chronic stress, such a from living in an unsafe environment
• Racism  
• Wars or acts of terrorism
• Witnessing or being the victim of violent crime

Witnessing events that cause harm to others can also result in trauma, especially with recurrent exposure. Children for instance may develop symptoms of trauma after witnessing abuse or domestic violence in the home or community. Similarly, people who live in war-zones and frontline workers may develop symptoms of trauma as a result of their subjective response to the event. 

Symptoms of trauma can be felt immediately, or can surface weeks, months, or even years following the event.

What are the common signs and symptoms of trauma?

Not everyone experiences trauma in the same way, but there are common signs and symptoms of trauma:

• Overwhelming fears that may seem trivial to others
• Depression, Anxiety and/or panic attacks
• Anger, irritability, mood swings, violent outbursts
• Guilt, shame, and self-blame
• Self destructive behaviors such as self-harm or substance abuse
• Withdrawal from or avoidance of loved ones, places, or activities 
• On high alert: flight, fight, freeze response even in safe situations 
• Obsessive and compulsive behaviors 
• Feeling disconnected, disassociated, or numb
• Issues with forming or recalling memories (i.e., a child abuse survivor may not remember their childhood much at all)
• An unconscious need to “reenact” their trauma

If you are experiencing symptoms of trauma, it’s important to seek professional mental health support as it may be a sign of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). 

What are the effects of trauma on health and wellbeing?

Anxiety and depression commonly occur with traumatic experiences and can interfere with our daily functioning. For example, it may be difficult to open up and trust others or maintain a job or to engage in activities we once enjoyed. We may find it difficult to manage our emotions and react to people and situations appropriately, because our mind is reacting to the memory of the traumatic event rather than the present moment. 

Those with preexisting depression or anxiety are also more likely to develop PTSD after a traumatic experience.

Trauma may also lead to the onset of a substance use disorder (SUD) and/or an eating disorder, as a way to cope with difficult emotions and memories associated with the traumatic experience(s). 

Trauma can also increase our risk of developing physical health problems, particularly cardiovascular and autoimmune diseases. It’s important to speak to your primary care physician about any physical symptoms you may experience.

Looking for a therapist for trauma therapy?

Some of us might find ways to cope with our trauma, whether it’s through movement, mindfulness/meditation, or connecting with others. 

However, it’s extremely important to seek professional support from a trauma-informed therapist who can help you understand how to heal from trauma, and equip you with skills to better cope with trauma and move forward in your life.

At Handel Behavioral Health, our team of highly-trained and compassionate trauma-informed therapists in Massachusetts offer a safe and supportive environment to treat those who experience the lasting effects of trauma. 

Your therapist will offer the appropriate tools and interventions that best suit your lifestyle, helping you to cope with your symptoms of trauma, navigate life challenges, and move forward with healthier and more adaptive skills. 

Our therapists and counselors are here to safely support you online or in-person from our Massachusetts offices in Amherst, Franklin, West Springfield, Wilbraham, or Natick offices.

 

Also read: Trauma-Informed Therapy In Massachusetts to learn more about therapy and treatment options for trauma at Handel Behavioral Health.

 

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