Trauma can leave a deep and lasting impact on individuals. Whether having been involved in or simply having experienced an extremely distressing event, trauma can lead to a long list of unwanted symptoms.
It is crucial to understand that trauma is not something one simply ‘gets over’—it requires professional intervention. Seeking help from a licensed therapist is a crucial step towards healing. A therapist is equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to guide individuals through the complex journey of trauma recovery.
Understanding Trauma
Before we dive into signs that may signify you or a loved one should seek the help of a mental health therapist for trauma, we first have to understand what trauma is.
Trauma is a psychological response to highly distressing events that overwhelm an individual’s ability to cope. Trauma often causes feelings of helplessness, diminishing their sense of self, and their ability to feel a full range of emotions.
There are three different types of traumas someone may experience:
Acute Trauma
Acute trauma is a type of trauma that results from a single distressing event, typically occurring suddenly and unexpectedly. This could range from a car accident, a natural disaster, a violent attack, or any other incident that poses a severe threat to a person’s physical or emotional wellbeing.
Chronic Trauma
Chronic trauma refers to exposure to multiple traumatic events that are repeated and prolonged. These incidents can range from long-term physical or sexual abuse to ongoing domestic violence or living in a war-torn region. Chronic trauma is often more complex and severe than acute trauma.
Complex Trauma
Complex trauma is a type of trauma that occurs repeatedly and cumulatively, usually over a period of time and within specific relationships and contexts. It often refers to traumatic stressors that are premeditated, planned, and caused by other humans. Complex trauma may include experiencing chronic maltreatment, neglect, or abuse during childhood.
Signs You May Need to See a Therapist for Trauma
There are three different types of signs to look out for in yourself or your loved ones that may indicate the need for psychotherapy with a licensed professional.
Emotional Signs
Emotional signs that may indicate a need for therapy often include recurring nightmares or flashbacks related to a traumatic event. These reminders can disrupt your everyday life and cause significant distress.
You may also experience intense reactions to reminders of the trauma. These reactions include the onset of sudden panic attacks or uncontrollable bouts of crying when faced with situations, places, or people that remind you of the incident. Persistent feelings of fear, horror, anger, guilt, or shame are other key indicators.
These emotions may be overwhelming and constant, affecting your mood, relationships, and overall outlook on life.
Physical Signs
Physical signs of trauma can be as telling as emotional ones, often indicating that therapy may be needed.
Significant changes in weight or appetite can be symptomatic of underlying emotional distress related to trauma. These changes can be as simple as sudden weight loss or gain or eating too much or too little. Chronic fatigue is another sign, which can result from the body’s response to constant stress and anxiety.
Insomnia and other sleep disturbances, such as frequent waking during the night or experiencing nightmares, can also be indicative of trauma. These sleep issues often stem from the mind’s struggle to process traumatic events, leading to disruptions in normal sleep patterns.
Behavioral Signs
Behavioral signs can also suggest a need for therapy in response to trauma.
One such sign is having difficulty maintaining relationships. This could manifest as sudden outbursts of anger, withdrawal from loved ones, or an inability to form new relationships. Such difficulties often stem from feelings of mistrust, fear of being hurt, or the belief that one is unworthy of love or friendship.
Additionally, persistent negative beliefs and feelings about oneself or the world can be indicative of trauma. You may constantly perceive yourself as inadequate, feel intense guilt or shame, or see the world as a dangerous place.
These beliefs and feelings can affect how you interact with others and approach life, leading to behaviors like avoidance or self-sabotage.
When to Seek Help from a Psychotherapist
Recognizing the need for help in dealing with trauma is a crucial step toward healing and recovery.
It is important to understand that it is always acceptable to seek professional help. There is no longer any stigma associated with reaching out to a trained psychologist or psychiatrist.
Timely intervention plays a critical role in managing trauma symptoms. It can also play a part in preventing symptoms from escalating into more severe mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The sooner you seek help in the form of client-centered psychotherapy, the better your chances of recovery and returning to a happier, more balanced life.
Compassionate Mental Health Therapist for Trauma in Phoenix, AZ
At 180 Mental Health & Wellness, our dedicated team of psychiatric providers is committed to offering comprehensive, client-centered psychotherapy and treatment for individuals suffering from trauma.
Leveraging their extensive expertise, they provide a broad range of diagnostic, psychotherapy, and counseling services designed to address the unique needs and challenges of each patient. Our ultimate goal is to facilitate healing and promote mental wellness in a supportive and friendly environment.
If you or a loved one are dealing with trauma and seeking professional help, do not hesitate to reach out. Call us today at (480) 863-5250 or conveniently request an appointment online.
