Compassionate Trauma and PTSD Treatment in Mansfield, TX - Wholesome Mind Psychiatry
When overwhelming events shatter our sense of safety, they can leave profound imprints on our mind and emotions. Such experiences may lead to trauma-related disorders, which encompass a range of emotional, physical, and psychological responses.
If you've had a tough time or traumatic event or period of ongoing trauma, talking to one of our experts might help.
Trauma Conditions
Trauma-Related Disorders are a group of mental health conditions that arise from extremely stressful or life-threatening events.
The spectrum includes conditions like:
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD):
Post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, is a mental health disorder that develops after a traumatic event. It can completely disrupt an individual’s life, making it hard to sleep, relax, concentrate, and function.
You may have heard that PTSD mainly develops in soldiers, but it’s actually more common than you might think. PTSD affects around 8 million adults in the U.S. each year, and there are many types of traumatic events that can trigger the disorder.
Acute Stress Disorder:
Acute stress disorder is very similar to PTSD but is shorter in duration. ASD symptoms develop immediately after a traumatic event and last three days to one month. If symptoms persist beyond a month, the individual has developed PTSD.
Adjustment Disorders:
Adjustment disorders are usually temporary and triggered by stressful life events such as divorce, job loss, being diagnosed with an illness, or losing a loved one. Some people are able to cope with the stress of these situations on their own, but others need help from a doctor or mental health professional.
Symptoms of an adjustment disorder may include:
Frequent sadness or hopelessness
Crying often
Withdrawing from family and friends
Not enjoying your favorite activities and hobbies anymore
Lack of appetite
Insomnia
Neglecting your responsibilities at home or work
Having trouble focusing
Difficulty functioning in daily life
Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
Symptoms of Trauma
The traumatic event is relived in many forms:
- Intense Fear: A perpetual feeling of dread or anticipating danger even when there’s no apparent threat.
- Sadness: A lingering feeling of sorrow, often accompanied by tears, and a sense of hopelessness.
- Anger: Irritability, short temper, or even rage, which might seem disproportionate to the situation.
- Guilt: Constantly blaming oneself, feeling responsible for events outside one’s control.
- Shame: An overwhelming sense of worthlessness, often internalizing the traumatic event as a reflection of one’s identity.
- Insomnia, fatigue, being easily startled, or concentration difficulties.
Insomnia: Difficulty falling or staying asleep, leading to disrupted sleep patterns.
Fatigue: Persistent tiredness, lack of energy, and feeling drained.
Startle Response: Being jumpy or easily frightened by sudden noises or movements.
Concentration Difficulties: Finding it hard to focus on tasks, being easily distracted, or feeling “foggy.”
- Flashbacks: Vivid and often distressing reliving of the traumatic event, feeling as if it’s happening all over again.
Nightmares: Disturbing dreams related to the trauma that disrupt sleep.
Intrusive Memories: Unexpected and involuntary memories of the event that intrude into daily life, causing distress.
Detachment: Feeling disconnected from one’s surroundings, loved ones, or activities once enjoyed, akin to watching life from a distance
Causes of Trauma and Risk Factors
Trauma doesn’t discriminate; it can affect anyone, anywhere. However, specific situations and factors make some more vulnerable to its effects. Delving deeper:
1- Events:
Abuse: This can be physical, emotional, or sexual in nature and often has long-lasting effects on the victim.
Natural Disasters: Events such as hurricanes, earthquakes, or floods can lead to significant trauma, especially if there’s a loss of life or property.
Violent Attacks: Incidents like muggings, shootings, or terrorist attacks can have profound psychological impacts.
Witnessing Distressing Events: Merely witnessing a traumatic event, even if not directly involved, can be deeply unsettling. This includes seeing accidents or violent acts.
2- Genetic Predisposition:
Biological Vulnerability: Some individuals might have a brain chemistry that’s more susceptible to trauma.
Family History: Those with a family history of mental health disorders might have an increased risk of developing trauma-related disorders.
3-Life Experiences:
Previous Traumas: Experiencing trauma in the past can make one more susceptible to its effects in the future.
Childhood Adversity: Difficult experiences during formative years, such as neglect, persistent bullying, or parental separation, can set the stage for increased vulnerability in later life.
Lack of a Support System: Without friends, family, or a community to lean on, individuals might find it more challenging to cope with traumatic events, intensifying their impact.
Treatment of Trauma and Management
Healing from trauma is possible with the right approach:
Medications
Antidepressants: These can help regulate mood by balancing neurotransmitters, aiding in relieving symptoms like sadness, anger, and irritability.
Anti-anxiety Medications: Useful in treating heightened anxiety and panic attacks that can arise post-trauma. Always consult a psychiatrist or medical professional for guidance.
Trauma-focused Psychotherapies
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This approach helps individuals recognize and change negative thought patterns and behaviors stemming from trauma. By confronting these patterns, one can develop healthier coping mechanisms.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): EMDR is a unique therapy where patients recall traumatic events while undergoing specific eye movements. This process can reduce the emotional charge of traumatic memories over time.
Self-management Strategies
Journaling: Putting feelings on paper can provide an outlet for emotional release, making it easier to process events and feelings.
Regular Exercise: Physical activity can release endorphins, the body’s natural mood lifters, helping in mitigating feelings of depression or anxiety.
Maintaining Routines: Keeping a regular schedule can provide a sense of normalcy and structure amidst the chaos trauma can bring.
Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques
Deep Breathing: Focusing on one’s breath and practicing deep, slow breaths can act as a natural tranquilizer for the nervous system.
Meditation: Regular meditation can increase resilience to stress, enhance self-awareness, and provide a sense of calm.
Progressive Muscle Relaxation: A technique where individuals tense and then slowly release each muscle group. This can help in reducing muscle tension and associated stress.
Living with Trauma-Related Disorders
Self-care:
Prioritizing Oneself: Listen to your body and mind. Take breaks when needed and engage in activities that rejuvenate you, be it reading, gardening, or simply resting.
Good Sleep Hygiene: Ensure a consistent sleep schedule, create a bedtime routine, and make the sleeping environment conducive to rest. This might involve dimming lights or using white noise machines.
Establishing Safety:
Creating a Safe Environment: Ensure your living space feels secure. This might involve rearranging furniture, using soft lighting, or even moving to a different place if reminders of the trauma are too intense.
Setting Boundaries: Recognize what you’re comfortable with and communicate these boundaries clearly to friends, family, and coworkers.
Rebuilding Trust:
Therapy: Regular sessions with a trusted therapist can guide you through the intricacies of rebuilding trust, both in oneself and in others.
Support Groups: Engaging with others who’ve experienced similar traumas can provide a sense of community and understanding. Sharing stories can be therapeutic and enlightening.
Begin Your Trauma-Related Disorders Healing Journey
Our dedicated team at Wholesome Mind Psychiatry And Wellness Clinic Mansfield, TX, specializes in understanding and treating the complexities of trauma. Reach out today and take the first step towards a brighter tomorrow.