Trauma is a serious mental stressor that can disrupt and even ruin a person’s life if not addressed. Left untreated, it can lead to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Trauma is like a scar—it can be permanent or healed. Just like removing a physical scar takes intentional effort, healing from trauma requires deliberate, consistent action.
Trauma occurs when we experience something stressful, distressing, or frightening, which we find difficult to cope with, harming our mental health, which could lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
People may feel overwhelmed by unfortunate events such as accidents, the loss of a loved one, abuse, or other traumatic experiences. These events can take a physical toll and, if persistent, lead to mental disorders.
Post-traumatic stress disorder can affect a person’s daily activities, education, job, and relationship with others. It may also trigger other mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. PTSD does not exist without trauma.
Let’s now explore the impact of trauma on mental health and the strategies available for healing.
Table of Contents
How Trauma Affects Mental Health
Trauma can be caused by a series of events such as abuse, war, accident, or anything that can break an individual emotionally.
Trauma alters the brain’s processing of fear and safety. Take, for example, a young girl who was sexually abused by a close relative. That experience may shape her perception of men. If a guy tries to give a warm or friendly hug, she might react violently, causing people to assume she’s overreacting. Unfortunately, she was just traumatised by the past event of abuse.
While some people heal quickly from trauma, others struggle or never fully heal. This is dependent on the individual’s willpower or mental strength.
Common Symptoms of Trauma and PTSD
Flashbacks and Nightmares
Having flashbacks of memories, you wish could disappear can be terrifying and stressful. Thus, disrupting sleep and concentration.
Hypervigilance/Exaggerated Startle responses:
Trauma can result in jumpy reactions— especially in a loud or crowded environment.
For instance, someone affected by war may flinch at the sound of a generator backfire.
Substance Use/Self-harm
Some may resort to drugs or risky behaviours to cope with emotional pain.
Common Causes of PTSD
- Physical or sexual assault
- Serious accidents or injuries
- Natural disasters
- Childhood neglect
- Witnessing violence or death
Strategies for Healing from Trauma and PTSD
Healing takes time, but it is possible. Here are some effective methods:
Professional Therapy
Psychotherapy, especially Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), is highly effective in treating PTSD.
Therapy helps individuals process traumatic memories and develop healthier coping mechanisms. If you are willing to speak to a professional, it is quite effective.
Support Systems
Having trusted loved ones to talk to can ease emotional burdens. Knowing you are not alone gives you the strength to overcome your trauma. Having optimistic people, positive vibes, and love helps promote healing.
Self-care practices
Mindfulness, meditation, regular exercise, journaling, and adequate sleep are vital activities for regulating emotions and managing PTSD symptoms. Do all to take care of your mental health. Love yourself better and try journaling; it helps.
Medications
In some cases, antidepressants or anti-anxiety medication may be prescribed to relieve intense symptoms.
Final Thoughts
Trauma and PTSD can be overwhelming and difficult to overcome, but healing is possible. Don’t give up, strive for a better life and improved mental health.
Remember, PTSD doesn’t exist without trauma, so I want you to heal from your trauma. Put those strategies into practice, and you will see a significant change. Cheers to good health and a positive lifestyle.
Read also: The Benefits Of Journaling: Writing Down Your Thoughts To Improve Mental Health And Clarity
