Most people will experience trauma in their lifetime whether it’s a car accident, abuse or neglect, the sudden death of a loved one, a violent criminal act, exposure to the violence of war, or a natural disaster. Some people experience trauma outside of the listed above and they are unaware of it.
In these circumstances, the support, guidance, and assistance of a therapist are fundamental to healing from trauma.
The following is for educational purposes only, Please do not use this as a reference to diagnose yourself.
As a clinician I care about providing quality care and treating your symptoms rather than solely focusing on giving a diagnosis. Yes diagnosis can provide clarity, however, it is important to heal the wounds that pushed you in the diagnostic criteria.
Trauma Symptoms
According to the four types of symptoms listed in the DSM-5.
Avoidance Symptoms
- Avoiding specific locations, sights, situations, and sounds that serve as reminders of the event
- Anxiety, depression, numbness, or guilt
Re-experiencing Symptoms
- Intrusive thoughts, nightmares, or flashbacks
Hyperarousal Symptoms
- Anger, irritability, and hypervigilance
- Aggressive, reckless behavior, including self-harm
- Sleep disturbances
Negative Mood and Cognition Symptoms
- Loss of interest in activities that were once considered enjoyable
- Difficulty remembering details of the distressing event
- Change in habits or behavior since the trauma
Research has proven psychotherapy to be the most effective form of treatment for trauma. Most commonly, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) are used in treating trauma.
If you or someone you know matches the trauma symptoms listed above, I am confident that I can help and invite you to contact me today for a free consultation.