Emotional and psychological trauma is the result of extraordinarily stressful events that break down one's sense of security and make one feel vulnerable and helpless. Psychological trauma depends on the subjective emotional experience of an event. Trauma can leave one struggling with disturbing emotions, memories, and anxiety that will not go away. Furthermore, it could disconnect one from society and stop trusting others. Traumatic experiences usually involve a threat to safety, but any situation that leaves you overwhelmed and isolated can result in trauma, even if there is no physical harm. Emotional and psychological trauma can be caused by an accident, injury, or violent attack, especially if it was unexpected or happened in childhood. It can also be caused by ongoing stress, bullying, domestic violence, or childhood neglect. Quite often, there are other causes that are overlooked, such as the death of someone close, the disintegration of a relationship, natural disasters, or some shocking event on social media.
Although many of us go through trauma, it looks different for everyone. There are many symptoms that someone can feel; There is no correct way to express it. There are two types of symptoms: physical and psychological. Physical symptoms include insomnia, nightmares, fatigue, rapid heartbeat, difficulty concentrating, nervousness and agitation, muscle tension, and body aches. Psychological or emotional symptoms include confusion, irritability, anxiety, fear, mood swings, guilt, shame, sadness, despair, disconnection, and withdrawal from others.
In order to heal traumas, the most important thing is to take care of your health. Taking care of your health means sleeping, eating a balanced and healthy diet, and reducing stress. Trying to regulate our nervous system helps us stay calm and think better. There are different techniques that can be used including conscious breathing, grounding, and allowing yourself to feel what you need to feel. Having support is also very important, to know that you are not alone. Another type of support would be therapy. Trauma can be hard, scary, and intense. For this reason, it is preferable to go with a therapist who can be with you on that emotional journey.
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About
Alessandra is a bilingual individual, couples, family, and group therapist at Therapy Works Counseling in Frisco and Dallas.
In addition to being a psychologist, Ale enjoys her family, friends, and dancing
