Trauma
We often associate trauma with extreme events such as abuse, war, natural disasters, or accidents. However, trauma can also occur in everyday life. The longer we live, the more inevitable it is that we experience trauma. Trauma is the response to a deeply disturbing or stressful event(s) that overwhelms an individual's ability to cope. It causes feelings of helplessness and diminishes the sense of self and ability to feel the full range of emotions and experiences.
There are various situations that can cause trauma, including:
Childhood trauma: Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse; neglect; bullying; or witnessing violence in the home or community.
Intergenerational (family history) trauma: Traumatic experiences passed down through generations, such as a history of abuse, addiction, or mental health issues within a family.
Racialised trauma: Experiences of racism, discrimination, or prejudice based on race or ethnicity.
Pre/postnatal trauma: Complications during pregnancy, childbirth, or postpartum period that put the mother or baby at risk, or result in the loss of a child.
Medical trauma: Serious illness, injury, invasive medical procedures, or long-term hospitalization.
Community violence trauma: Exposure to violence in one's neighborhood or community, such as shootings, stabbings, or other acts of aggression.
Natural disasters: Earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, wildfires, or other catastrophes that cause widespread destruction and loss.
Accidents: Car accidents, workplace injuries, or other sudden and unexpected incidents that cause physical harm or loss.
War and conflict: Exposure to combat, terrorism, or displacement as a result of war or civil unrest.
Loss: Grieving the death of a loved one, the end of a significant relationship, or the loss of a job or home.
These are just a few examples, and it's important to remember that each individual's experience of trauma is unique. What may be traumatic for one person might not be for another, as people have different thresholds and coping mechanisms.
Types of Trauma: Single-event PTSD and Complex PTSD
Typically, trauma is divided into two primary categories: single-event Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and complex PTSD.
Differences between Single-event PTSD and Complex PTSD
Single Event PTSD
Occurs as a result of a one-time, unexpected negative event (e.g., an accident or losing a loved one)
Can lead to Complex PTSD
Complex Trauma (C-PTSD)
Arises from long-lasting, chronic, and/or multiple negative events
May include childhood abuse by parents, caregivers, or someone close to the individual
Loss of trust and safety, resulting in troubled relationships and a weakened sense of self
Ongoing cycles of self-destructive behavior or addiction
Both PTSD and C-PTSD share symptoms such as:
Flashbacks and nightmares
Intrusive thoughts, memories, or images
Avoidance of triggers (e.g., conversations, places, memories, thoughts, activities)
High, constant levels of fear, anxiety, stress, guilt, shame, sadness
Impaired daily functioning
Therapy Approach
Eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and polyvagal-informed therapy are most effective ways of treating trauma. Depending on your needs and severity, medication might also be helpful in reducing the intensity of its symptoms. Social support, psychoeducation and actively practicing healthy lifestyle habits and self-care all play a part in contributing to healing too.
How Therapy Works
Initial Session
During our first meeting, we'll strive to comprehend your personal history, presenting issues, and symptoms. We'll also encourage you to contemplate specific objectives and goals for therapy. A comprehensive assessment will be conducted to determine your safety and suitability for EMDR treatment. Throughout the treatment, learning and practicing self-regulation techniques are highly recommended.
Follow-up Sessions
Based on your needs and symptom severity, it may be more beneficial to schedule sessions weekly or bi-weekly during the initial 3-6 months. Once you demonstrate improved ability to manage your mood and symptoms, sessions can be conducted less frequently.
Take the time to reflect on how therapy can assist you in addressing your trauma. When you are ready to take the first step, we are here to support you. Speak to our Trauma Specialist Counsellors, Sho Sho O and Celeste Cai to find out how trauma-informed therapy can work for you. Alternatively, you can also contact us at info@restingtree.ca or book your free consultation today.