THE PROBLEM WITH TRAUMA

The problem with trauma, which can be defined as an emotionally disturbing or life-threatening experience, is that the traumatic suffering can be reexperienced multiple times. A traumatic event that happened long ago can be retriggered for days, months, or even years after the trauma is no longer occurring.

There are different types of trauma, including:

Big “T” Traumas:
• a natural disaster,
• a serious accident,
• a terrifying event,
• an act of violence, or
• chronic childhood abuse.
Or
Small “T” Traumas:
• traumas that accumulate over time,
• work stress,
• emotional abandonment or abuse,
• being bullied, or
• experiencing neglect.

Big “T” or little “T” traumas are unique to each individual, as are the approaches to treatment. Your response to an emotionally disturbing event, whatever it may be and however powerful it may feel, is your own. When past traumatic experiences are triggered in the present, it can feel as if the trauma is happening now. A thought, interaction with others, or feeling can bring back a traumatic memory accompanied by overwhelming feelings of fear, anger, shame, or dread. Trauma related beliefs such as, “I’m not safe” and “people can’t be trusted” can define the moment creating a fight, flight, or freeze response.

A small “T” trauma can be every bit as damaging as a big “T” trauma and can benefit as much from the right therapeutic approach. There are ways to heal from trauma. Grounding exercises, mindfulness, and deep breathing are helpful in regulating trauma responses. Therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, talk therapy, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) can assist with moving out of the trauma response and changing the way past trauma effects the present.

If you have any questions or if you would like to discuss treatment for trauma, please call me for a free 15 minute consultation at (310) 384-0086.