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The concept of trauma can be complex but in this article we try to break down what it means and what help is available.
What is Trauma and PTSD?
Trauma is a psychological reaction to an event that is deeply unpleasant or stressful. It can be frightening situations where there have been threats to life or safety. You do not have to experience these events yourself to develop trauma. Witnessing or hearing about traumatic events can also cause you to develop trauma.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a medical diagnosis that describes a complex set of symptoms that can occur after experiencing a trauma. However, not everyone who has experienced a trauma will develop PTSD. Trauma and PTSD can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender or background. But there is help available.
Statistics and facts
- According to Statistics Canada, about 8% of the population is affected by PTSD at some point in their lives.
- Women are twice as likely as men to develop PTSD.
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Signs and symptoms
Symptoms of PTSD include:
- Re-experiencing the trauma through nightmares or flashbacks
- Emotional numbness
- Greatly increased nervous system activity, which can include insomnia, irritability and exaggerated fear reactions
Many people with PTSD report a constant sense of danger or threat, even in safe environments, which can make everyday activities and relationships difficult.
Help is available
When it comes to dealing with PTSD, there are several treatment options to consider to make the difficult journey a little easier. For example, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a proven method that focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviours. Also, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is a proven effective therapy that can help you process and re-evaluate traumatic memories. Another proven method is the emotional freedom technique, also called tapping. This is a therapeutic method that you can learn yourself with the help of a therapist. Choosing one of these therapies, in combination with medication such as antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs, is often part of the treatment plan. It is important to discuss the different options with a qualified psychologist or therapist to find the right treatment for you.
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How therapy can help
As therapy can give you tools to manage symptoms, it helps you work through the emotional and psychological impact of the underlying trauma. Although it can feel uncomfortable, or even overwhelming, therapy has many benefits. It gives you a safe place to express and explore your feelings which can significantly help the recovery process. Many people believe that seeking help is a sign of weakness. This is a tragic misconception; it takes strength to take the first step towards recovery.
We are ready to make the difficult easier
If you or someone you know is experiencing the symptoms and feelings described, it may be a good idea to talk to a psychologist or therapist. You can easily book an initial session with one of our experienced staff today to take the step towards a better quality of life.
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10 common questions about PTSD and trauma
What is PTSD?
PTSD stands for post-traumatic stress disorder and is a mental illness that can develop after experiencing a traumatic event. This condition can lead to severe and persistent emotional and physical symptoms. Help is available.
How does trauma occur?
Trauma usually occurs after a serious event that causes mental, emotional or physical harm. It can include anything from natural disasters and accidents to personal experiences such as abuse, war or loss. People can also be traumatized by witnessing an event that was threatening to other people or hearing from others how they experienced a traumatic situation. How trauma occurs depends on several different factors.
What are the most common symptoms of PTSD?
The most common symptoms include reliving the traumatic event (flashbacks), avoidance behaviour, increased vigilance, and changes in emotions and thoughts. These symptoms can be long-lasting and affect everyday life.
How is PTSD diagnosed?
Diagnosis of PTSD is carried out by qualified psychologists or psychiatrists and often involves both self-report tests and clinical interviews. Diagnostic tools such as the DSM-5 are also used.
Is there a cure for PTSD?
There is no “cure” in the traditional sense, but there are treatment methods such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and medication that can help manage the symptoms and increase quality of life.
What are ‘flashbacks’?
Flashbacks are intense and often unpleasant re-experiences of the traumatic event. This can happen suddenly without warning, or could be the result of seeing, hearing or smelling something that reminds you of the traumatic event.
How does PTSD affect relationships?
PTSD can make it difficult to maintain close relationships due to symptoms such as isolation, irritability and lack of trust. This can also lead to problems with work and social activities.
Is PTSD related to depression?
Yes, PTSD and depression often go hand in hand. Many people with PTSD also experience symptoms of depression, which can complicate diagnosis and treatment. It is possible to get treatment for both conditions concurrently.
What is the difference between acute stress disorder and PTSD?
Acute stress disorder occurs immediately after the traumatic event and lasts for a short period of time. If symptoms persist for more than a month, it can develop into PTSD.
What is Complex Trauma?
Complex trauma occurs when a person may have been exposed to multiple highly unpleasant situations over a long period of time, such as bullying or abuse. The nature of the trauma may also depend on the age at which you experienced the trauma.
How to seek help?
If you or someone you know is suffering from PTSD or trauma, it is important to seek professional help. You can book an appointment with a psychologist or therapist via our website. We make the difficult easier by offering online sessions. If you are experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, call 911, call or text the National Suicide Hotline at 988, or go to your nearest emergency department.
How a psychologist treats trauma and PTSD
If you think you or someone you know is suffering from PTSD or other trauma symptoms, it can be scary and confusing. Help is available. It is important to seek professional help as soon as possible. Remember that only a qualified healthcare provider can make a diagnosis and prescribe a treatment plan. Here is an example of what treatment can look like:
- Step 1: Diagnostic Evaluation
The first step is to undergo a diagnostic evaluation with a psychologist or psychiatrist to determine if you have PTSD or other related conditions. - Step 2: Individualized treatment plan
If a diagnosis is made, your healthcare provider will design an individualized treatment plan based on your needs. - Step 3: Psychotherapy
Various forms of psychotherapy have been shown to be effective in treating PTSD. The most common are cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT). Another proven method is the emotional freedom technique, also called tapping. - Step 4: Pharmacological treatment
In some cases, medications such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety drugs may be prescribed to help you manage your symptoms. - Step 5: Monitoring and adjustment
Regular follow-up with your healthcare provider is essential to adjust the treatment plan as you progress. - Step 6: Self-help and support groups
Many people find it useful to attend support groups or use self-help techniques, such as mindfulness and relaxation exercises. Therefore, it is often part of your treatment plan. - Step 7: Long-term follow-up
After you complete the initial treatment phase, long-term follow-up and possibly continued therapy or medication will be necessary to help you maintain your well-being.
Next steps
Dealing with PTSD or trauma can be a long and challenging process, but it is entirely possible to feel better and regain control of your life. With us, you can easily get in touch with psychologists and therapists who can help you on your journey. Don’t hesitate to take the first step and seek help today. Together we can make the difficult easier.
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