A traumatic experience is one that you find disturbing, overwhelming or deeply distressing. Our reaction to trauma is as individual as we are but such an experience can damage the way we feel about ourselves, other people or how safe we feel within our world. Children who are exposed to recurring traumatic experiences are more susceptible to unhealthy ways of coping in adolescence and adulthood.
It’s important to be aware that the experience of trauma at any age can lead to the development of secondary problems such as substance misuse, anxiety, behavioural problems, depression, panic attacks, phobias, relationship problems, low self-esteem or even physical health issues. The emergence of secondary issues can leave you feeling trapped and confused about how to move forward.
If you have experienced a traumatic event and are struggling to limit its impact in any area of your life, I can help. Together we will work through the original trauma as well as any secondary problems that have developed as a result, freeing you to live a healthier, happier life.
Traumatic experiences can include but are not limited to:
- Sexual, physical or emotional abuse
- Sudden or traumatic loss of a loved one
- Abandonment in early childhood
- Experiencing or witnessing a serious crime
Common symptoms of trauma:
- Distress and/or fear
- Shock
- Dissociation or feeling emotionally numb
- Flashbacks
- Depression
- Confusion, forgetfulness or poor concentration
- Panic attacks
- Insomnia, nausea or shortness of breath
- Withdrawal or avoidance