Trauma is far more common than we realise. Some people experience it in childhood and others develop it from an event, such as war or a life-altering accident. Trauma can also occur when people experience reoccurring stress inducing, life-threatening events.
This infographic by the National Council for Behavioural Healthcare explains some of the causes of trauma and its side effects. Sometimes our body notifies us of our trauma before our mind can, and we will find ourselves experiencing physical symptoms like headaches, constipation and rigid muscles long before we realise we have been traumatised.
Our mental health is also affected by trauma, as the body maintains a fight-or-flight response in order to survive long after the event is over. People experiencing it may show signs of depression, anxiety, sporadic rage, numbness, apathy and fear. In addition, it is common for people to have trouble sleeping, experience nightmares and to have flashbacks, where they believe they are back in the threatening circumstance.
Trauma can be scary because it consumes your whole life. Navigating it, let alone finding healing, can feel like an impossible task. But it’s not. There are ways to manage trauma, and through therapy and time, you will feel like yourself again.
Take a look at this infographic and see if you identify with any of the symptoms listed. By implementing habits like exercising, journaling or speaking to a trusted friend, you can begin to understand the trauma and shake its hold on your life.
Acknowledging that you may have been traumatised is the first step to healing. It is not a sign of weakness or inferiority—it shows that you are human, and your body does not know how to heal. We can help you take the next step towards healing. Contact Duncan on 0434 331 243, or BOOK ONLINE NOW to book in our online diary.
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