Trauma is an emotional response to a terrible event like an accident, rape, incest, natural disaster, war, drug use, oppression or other mentally damaging event. After the event, shock and denial are typical while longer term reactions include unpredictable emotions, flashbacks, strained relationships and even physical symptoms like headaches or nausea. These feelings are normal and expected, however some people have difficulty moving on with their lives. Psychologists can help these individuals find constructive ways of managing their emotions.
Trauma can be experienced by anyone – regardless of age, gender, religion socioeconomic status, race, ethnicity, or sexual orientation. Trauma is unfortunately a common experience for adults and children in all communities, and it is especially common in the lives of people with mental and substance use disorders. For this reason, the need to address trauma is increasingly seen as an important part of effective behavioral health care and an integral part of the healing and recovery process.
The cost of trauma to society is incalculable. Trauma has been correlated to physical and mental illness; learning disabilities; addictions; deviant or aggressive behavior; polarization of belief systems, and a host of other problems.
Trauma is treatable – If you or a loved one has experienced a traumatic event and you believe that you need help to overcome that experience to better live your life, we can help. Fill out the form below to request an appointment with our psychiatrist.