Trauma

Trauma is a deeply distressing or disturbing experience that can affect an individual emotionally, physically, mentally, or spiritually. It can result from a wide range of events or circumstances, such as accidents, abuse, violence, loss, natural disasters, or any overwhelming event that exceeds a person’s ability to cope.

Trauma can be classified into different types:

Types of Trauma

  • Acute Trauma: Results from a single, isolated event, such as an accident or assault.

  • Chronic Trauma: Results from prolonged or repeated events, like domestic abuse or long-term illness.

  • Complex Trauma: Involves exposure to multiple traumatic events, often of an interpersonal nature, such as childhood neglect or abuse.

  • Secondary or Vicarious Trauma: Affects individuals who are indirectly exposed to trauma, such as caregivers or emergency responders.

Symptoms of Trauma

  • Emotional Symptoms: Anxiety, depression, guilt, anger, or feelings of detachment.

  • Physical Symptoms: Fatigue, insomnia, headaches, or a heightened stress response.

  • Behavioral Symptoms: Avoidance, social withdrawal, difficulty concentrating, or substance use.

  • Cognitive Symptoms: Intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, or negative beliefs about oneself or others.

Effects of Trauma

Trauma can significantly impact an individual’s mental health and relationships. If left unaddressed, it can lead to conditions like:

  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

  • Anxiety disorders

  • Depression

  • Dissociation

  • Physical health issues due to chronic stress.

Healing from Trauma

  • Therapy:

    • Therapy: Helps identify and challenge unhelpful thought patterns.

    • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): Helps process traumatic memories.

    • Trauma-Focused Therapy: Specialized approaches tailored to address trauma.

  • Support Groups: Connecting with others who have experienced similar trauma.

  • Self-Care Practices:

    • Mindfulness and meditation

    • Journaling or creative expression

    • Exercise and physical activity

  • Medication: In some cases, medications like antidepressants or anxiolytics may be prescribed.

When to Seek Help

It’s essential to seek professional support if trauma:

  • Interferes significantly with daily life.

  • Leads to self-harming thoughts or behaviors.

  • Causes prolonged distress or dysfunction.

If you suspect that you or someone you know is suffering from the symptoms of stress, it can help to confirm the diagnosis and develop a tailored treatment plan. The Soke offers assessment and treatment pathways for both adults and children, in our Chelsea and Wimbledon sites. Please note that as an outpatient centre, we cannot help with those who are chronically unwell and require inpatient services. We also provide support and training for individuals, families, schools and organisations who want to better manage the relationship with the diagnosed individual. Please contact our Client Services team to discuss your symptoms - or the symptoms of your loved one - so that they can guide you towards the most appropriate solution to suit your particular circumstances. They can also be reached on 020 7139 5051.