Most people will experience something traumatic in their lifetime; even if second hand, 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 effects of accumulated trauma, unable to pinpoint one single cause. Some people have difficulty dealing with major changes and/or losses, such as a relationship break-up, moving to a new location, or loss of a job.
Everyone deals with trauma and/or grief differently. What’s traumatic and seems overwhelming to one person may be seem like life’s normal ups and downs to another. The person suffering may be misunderstood, have their discomfort exacerbated by others who don’t understand or say the wrong thing; and the suffering person can feel further isolated, hopeless, scared, or abnormal.
If you or someone you know and care about is dealing with trauma, grief, and/or loss, there is help here. If you want to know more about Laurie’s background and how she can help, send a message or call.
If you want to read more about common symptoms and reactions, some are listed here. You may also find more information on this website under the “Resources” tab’
Regarding Grief & Loss
“Bereavement” is sometimes separated from other kinds of loss, referring to the process of recovering from the death of a loved one. But any type of loss can trigger a grief reaction with a wide range of emotions such as fear, anger and deep, deep sadness. Common symptoms of grief can be physical, emotional or social.
A few common symptoms in these categories are:
Physical
- Crying and sighing
- Headaches
- Loss of appetite
- Difficulty sleeping
- Weakness
- Fatigue
Emotional
- Feelings of sadness and yearning
- Feelings of worry or anger
- Feelings of frustration or guilt
Social
- Feeling detached from others
- Self-isolation from social contact
- Behaving in ways that are not normal for you
Every grieving experience is different. A person may be able to continue their day-to-day routine after one loss, yet not be able to get out of bed after the loss of someone else. Whatever your personal symptoms are, grief and bereavement counseling have been proven to help.
Regarding 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 match the trauma symptoms listed above, I am confident that I can help and invite you to contact me today for a free consultation.