Traumatic events are experienced and interpreted differently depending on each individuals’ circumstance which makes it difficult to define trauma with one definition. Trauma can be buried, from acute to chronic and complex, often based on the event itself and the individual. In its simplest form, trauma is a term used to describe an emotional consequence of a distressing event an individual has experienced.

TRAUMA AND PTSD

Trauma is directly linked to PTSD (Posttraumatic stress disorder) which is a response to a dangerous experience that involves serious harm to oneself or others. The devastating event could be anything from a serious accident, to being a victim of violence, or having survived a natural disaster. The effects of the devastating event can lead to intrusive thoughts and memories that affect their day-to-day lives as there is still a sense of danger, even though they may be safe. Those signs and symptoms specific to PTSD can lead to psychiatric assessment to determine diagnosis and treatment such as cognitive behaviour therapy.

Most people recover from PTSD while others may require more long-term treatment, depending on the complexity of their trauma. However, not everyone who experienced such a traumatic event will necessarily develop PTSD. Each person has their own risk factors (past trauma, additional stress such as job loss or grief). As well as protective factors (strong support network, having a sense of control after the event, positive coping strategies to get through the event). Mental health professionals believe that these factors play a role in one’s recovery from trauma and whether it may develop into PTSD.

Those that have experienced trauma, that don’t develop PTSD may still develop emotional disturbances such as anxiety, anger, sadness, numbness, confusion, and exhaustion to name a few. Emotional trauma is a normal response to a distressing event. It can also be a response to long-term chronic patterns that were present in one’s life at one time or another. For example, an absent or emotionally unavailable parent, or a relationship that was always one-sided. Individuals can deal with trauma by developing survival coping strategies. For some, this could be ultra-independence, which is an extreme need or desire to do everything on your own since you do not trust others. Fawning can also be a trauma response. This is when people-pleasing is used to diffuse conflict and earn the approval of others without setting boundaries, thus pushing your own emotions away. Trauma response is intrinsically different for each person. The first step is identifying what yours may be, in order to heal.

FACING TRAUMA

There can be a sense of helplessness and lack of control following traumatic events. Dealing with trauma begins by recognizing that the wound you have may not be your fault. Then, accepting that healing is your responsibility and that is what is in your control. The next step, and one of the most important attributes to dealing with trauma, is acquiring self-awareness. Being able to learn and recognize what “pushes our buttons” can help us discover our triggers. Triggers are what can cause the trauma response of distressing emotional reactions and behaviours that impact day-to-day life. For instance, you may have noticed certain behavioural patterns that have impacted your relationships, job performance, wellness or other areas of your life. Understanding your cognitive process can help you recognize your own trauma response. With this awareness, you can begin to connect those cognitions and behaviours so you can develop healthy skills and positive coping strategies.

COGNITIVE BEHAVIOURAL THERAPY

A common approach to dealing with trauma is CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy). CBT offers a here-and-now focus with a problem-oriented approach. First, you identify the nature and cause of your difficulties as well as the factors that maintain them. Trauma responses can be a result of distorted thinking, unregulated emotional reactions and negative beliefs about oneself. CBT aims to help identify, evaluate, and change these thinking patterns at different levels of cognition in order to develop more helpful and accurate meaning to events in life. As a result, the learned practical skills can help lessen disturbing emotional and behavioural responses in order to manage day-to-day life in a more positive manner and ultimately, let go of past trauma. CBT may not benefit those who are more interested in uncovering traumatic events exclusively since this approach wants to identify the issue in order to move forward on developing coping strategies.

DISCOVERING HELP

If you or a loved one are struggling with trauma responses or perhaps with PTSD, there are many programs and support services available. Reach out and connect with a System Navigation Specialist at ConnexOntario to help direct you to available services in your area, including CBT programs: 1-866-531-2600