Trauma

A trauma is any extremely distressing experience whereas post-traumatic stress disorder occurs when the stress from the traumatic experience becomes overwhelming and impacts our ability to function. A crisis occurs when a person is no longer able to cope with stress.

Types of Trauma

There are several types of trauma including acute trauma (one time event/short duration), chronic trauma (repeated/prolonged), complex trauma (repeated or multiple traumatic events), vicarious trauma (exposure to other’s suffering).

What’s the Cause?

Most people go through a trauma in their lifetime, however, not all people who experience a trauma will develop post-traumatic stress disorder. Most people develop trauma-related disorders are as result of a combination of different risk factors such as neurobiological factors and genetic markers. The longer and more frequent people are exposed to traumatic events, the higher likelihood of developing psychological and even chronic medical problems due to the devastating impact trauma has on the nervous system and stress-response.

Treating Trauma

There are many research-based strategies to reduce/manage the stress response of the body by regulating the nervous system. Psychotherapy may include effective interventions such as Trauma-focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Somatic Experiencing (SE), and Narrative Therapy. Practices such as mindfulness/meditation, relaxation/self-soothing strategies, exercise, healthy diet, and rest have also been shown to be beneficial.