Suffering from trauma is a deeply distressing and disturbing experience. Trauma can occur when a person experiences an event that is physically and emotionally harmful or threatening. It may happen to someone who witnesses or experiences an event that happens directly to them. It can also happen when a person witnesses or learns about an event that is harmful or threatening to others.
What are the Possible Causes of Trauma?
Trauma can come from different places, but they all have one thing in common: they result from an overwhelming event that exceeds our ability to cope. It can be caused by natural disasters, such as earthquakes or hurricanes; accidents, such as car accidents or falls; or intentional violence, such as sexual assault or domestic violence.
Trauma affects us physically and emotionally and can lead to long-term mental health problems, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, some people tend to undermine how trauma can affect their lives.
In this article, we’ll share the signs of trauma that can be affecting your life.
Addiction-Related Behaviors
Addiction-related behaviors are often a sign of underlying trauma. Plenty of people who struggle with addiction have experienced some form of trauma. This can be caused by various things, such as abuse, neglect, witnessing violence, or experiencing a natural disaster.
Trauma’s effects can be long-lasting and make it difficult for a person to cope with life in a healthy manner. This can include developing substance abuse disorder. While substances like alcohol and smoking may seem harmless, there’s no telling if a person will use these substances to an unhealthy, harmful point. Other additions may include sex, gambling, gaming, and excessive spending. It is essential to work with others if you are struggling with addiction and believe you may have experienced trauma in your past. A therapist or counselor can help you work through your trauma and learn healthy coping skills. If you are struggling with substance abuse, don’t hesitate to reach out for help.
Anxiety
Anxiety can be a sign of underlying trauma, such as a childhood experience or a recent event. Traumatic events can cause long-lasting changes in the brain that make it difficult to cope with anxiety. Some people may develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after a traumatic event. This can cause flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts about the event. It can also lead to avoidance of places or things that remind the person of the trauma.
Dissociation
Dissociation is one way for them to cope with a traumatic experience. This means the person may feel outside of their body or that the event is not happening to them. Dissociation can be a short-term response to trauma or a long-term coping mechanism. If dissociation is a long-term response to trauma, it may be a sign of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Sleep Problems
Sleep problems are often a sign of underlying trauma. Trauma can cause a person to feel constantly on edge, making it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. Additionally, trauma can lead to nightmares, which can further disrupt sleep. If you are experiencing sleep problems, you must talk to a mental health professional who can help you understand and address the underlying trauma.
Conclusion
There are many signs of underlying trauma, but they can be challenging to recognize. If you believe someone you know is suffering from trauma, it is essential to seek professional help. The sooner the person gets help, the better their chances are of making a full recovery. Thankfully, therapists trained in treating trauma can help you process what happened and begin healing. Sakina Issa is here to help you as a therapist for trauma you can reach out to help you recover. If you have any signs listed above or have anxieties that can hinder you from living your everyday life, it’s time to address this situation with Sakina. Book now for an appointment!
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