When we think about trauma victims, we often envision images of wounded soldiers or veterans. But trauma is so much more, and it should never be segregated to just one or two groups of people. It happens to just about everyone in one form or another. You may have a friend or relative who struggles because of trauma, but you just don’t realize it.
Research tells us that:
- 1 in 5 people has been sexually abused as a child.
- 1 in 4 people experienced being beaten by a parent to the point of leaving bruises or marks.
- 1 in 3 couples regularly engage in some type of physical violence.
- 25% of people grew up with family members who were alcoholics.
- 1 in 8 people has experienced their mother being physically abused.
Humans have overcome so much; both on a grand scale and on a small one. We’ve lived through wars and natural disasters. We’ve dealt with violence and interpersonal conflicts. All of the above can be classified as traumatic events, and they do tend to leave their mark on us; some more than others.
Understanding Trauma
Trauma has a way of leaving its mark on our minds and emotions, but it can also impact our physical bodies. The dictionary defines trauma as, “a deeply distressing or disturbing experience.” This definition is concise, but there is so much more to it that people need to understand.
Traumatic events are virtually unendurable. The thoughts surrounding the traumatic event become so difficult to manage that most people attempt to push them away. Their goal is to act as though they never happened, but that is much easier said than done. Moving on takes more inner strength than most people can comprehend due to the horrific memories and shame that goes along with them.
Try as we might to move on, the human brain cannot be so easily swayed. There is a part of the brain that has the job of ensuring our survival, and it can easily get disturbed if there is any indication of danger. When this happens, those unpleasant emotions come rushing back, and there are often unhealthy behaviors that accompany them.
Facing trauma
For trauma victims, nothing is scarier than having to face their experiences. Some of them spend the majority of their lives running from them, and it can take time to retrain the brain to think differently. So many people spend their entire lives being overwhelmed by their trauma that they can’t imagine life without the flashbacks and grief.
Facing and healing from trauma is a journey unlike any other, and it is one that should never be taken alone. Professional trauma therapy provides the patient with the support and guidance they need throughout every aspect of the healing process.
Are you a victim of trauma? Healing is available to you, and I can help. Contact me today to make an appointment for your consultation.
