Trauma can be defined as an emotional response to a distressing event, such as an accident, assault, or a natural disaster. Trauma is a normal reaction, and generally the symptoms begin to improve some weeks after the event. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an ongoing more severe mental health condition that can emerge following such experiences, making a significant impact on daily life.
In the UK, recent estimates suggest that around 4% of the population may be diagnosed with PTSD at some point in their lives, although many other individuals experience symptoms (but may not meet the full diagnostic criteria).
Symptoms of PTSD can be broadly grouped into four categories: intrusive memories, avoidance, negative changes in thinking and mood, and alterations in arousal and reactivity. Individuals may relive the traumatic event through flashbacks or nightmares, have difficulties sleeping, avoid reminders of the trauma, experience feelings of detachment or hopelessness, and display heightened levels of anxiety or irritability. PTSD symptoms can present immediately after the experience, or emerge months or years later. Complex PTSD may be diagnosed in those who have repeatedly experienced traumatic events, such as abuse.
Treatment for PTSD typically involves a combination of therapies, with cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) being one of the most effective methods. Eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) is another innovative treatment that has shown over recent years to be extremely successful in alleviating symptoms. In some cases, medication like antidepressants may be prescribed.
Further information and resources:
Recommended books:
- “The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma” by Bessel van der Kolk – A worldwide bestseller, this book, written by an expert in the field, provides an alternative method for easing the impact of stress and trauma on life and being.
- “Trauma and Recovery: The Aftermath of Violence - From Domestic Abuse to Political Terror” by Judith Herman – Herman considers trauma in various contexts, from those experienced on an individual level to events, like war, that impact huge groups.
- “No Bad Parts: Healing Trauma & Restoring Wholeness with the Internal Family Systems Model” by Richard Schwartz – Through introducing the IFS model, this book provides a refreshing and compassionate approach to healing the mind, body, and soul after trauma.
