Many people will experience a traumatic event in their lifetime, and such events can include a car accident, physical and/or emotional abuse or neglect, the sudden death or severe injury of a loved one, a violent criminal act, exposure to the violence of war, a violent or chaotic environment, or a natural disaster.
While some people may find they are able to bounce back from a traumatic experience with time and support from others, at other times anxiety and fear related to the trauma may continue, along with other changes to a person’s mood, reactions to situations, and behavior.
Psychotherapy can be crucial to healing from the persisting impact of traumatic events.
Trauma-related problems and symptoms include:
- Anxiety, depression, feeling numb or guilty
- Anger and irritability
- Feeling jumpy or like you are on high alert
- Having intrusive thoughts and memories of the traumatic event
- Nightmares and flashbacks
- Avoiding reminders of the traumatic event
- Problems sleeping
Psychotherapy can help you find a way to live with greater peace despite what has happened, and learn the best ways to cope with the distress you’ve been experiencing.
If you believe you are going through problems related to trauma, I would be happy to talk with you about how I might be able to help.