Trauma

Psychological trauma is an overwhelming emotional response to an intense event. There are many different types of traumas that an individual may experience and everyone can respond differently. When reactions to trauma persist for longer than 6 months following a traumatic event or begin to interfere with an individual’s ability to function on a daily basis, it may be time to consult a mental health professional to help explore treatment options.

Type of Trauma

There are a wide variety of tramas that are typically categorized based on how long an individual is exposed to a traumatic event. These categories include: 

  • Acute trauma: A singular distressing event such as an accident, assault, or natural disaster.

  • Chronic trauma: Prolonged exposure to traumatic situations, such as ongoing abuse, neglect, or living in a war zone. 

  • Complex trauma: Multiple traumatic events that often occur in childhood, such as prolonged abuse or neglect

Reactions to Trauma 

Everyone responds to trauma differently. What may be extremely traumatic to one individual may have little to no effect on another. Some of the common reactions to trauma include:

  • Feeling nervous, helpless, hopeless or sad

  • Insomnia or nightmares

  • Mood swings

  • Intrusive thoughts

  • Fatigue

  • Racing heartbeat

  • Social withdrawal

  • Difficulty concentrating

  • Trouble trusting others

Treatment for Trauma

Treatment for trauma is not a one-size-fits-all approach. There are many interventions that may help with uncovering underlying causes, reframing core beliefs, and improving overall quality of life. A comprehensive treatment plan for trauma may include one or more of the following interventions.

  • Therapy: Talk therapy can be an important space for individuals who have experienced trauma to learn how to navigate feelings, learn healthy coping mechanisms, and work through cognitive distortions. Some common therapeutic modalities include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and somatic therapy. 

  • Medication: While there are no medications to treat trauma, medication can be a pivotal component of treatment for any co-occurring mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. Some commonly prescribed medications for these conditions include selective-serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and mood stabilizers.

  • Lifestyle changes: As with most mental and physical health challenges, implementing healthy lifestyle habits can improve symptoms and overall well being for individuals trying to build their self-esteem. Examples of healthy habits include a regular sleep schedule, balanced eating, regular exercise, and meditation practices.

When should I see a professional?

If you and a loved one may be struggling to cope with a traumatic event, it may be beneficial to consult a mental health professional, such as a therapist or psychiatric nurse practitioner. At Tree of Life Counseling Center in Princeton and Freehold, NJ, we have an experienced team of 50+ clinicians to help support you through whatever you may be facing. Schedule an appointment today by calling 732-393-8391 or filling out an online form at https://www.treeoflifecc.org/start-today