Trauma (PTSD & CPTSD) can subtly integrate itself into the complex structure of our human psychology, exerting deep and lasting impacts on various aspects of our existence, such as our social interactions, emotional health, physical state, immune system, cognitive functions, and behavioural patterns. Identifying trauma is a critical initial step when embarking on the healing journey towards recovery and personal growth.
What is Trauma?
Trauma, as defined by renowned experts Dr Judith Herman and Dr Gabor Maté, encompasses a wide spectrum of experiences ranging from childhood adversity to abuse, accidents, war, and disasters. Dr Maté defines trauma as an "inner injury, a lasting rupture or split with the self due to difficult or hurtful events". He emphasises that trauma is not just about the events themselves but the impact they have on an individual's psyche and body. Trauma shapes how we live, love, and perceive the world, often leaving deep imprints that can manifest in various ways throughout our lives. Dr Judith Herman defines trauma as an experience that overwhelms an individual’s ability to cope, reducing their sense of empowerment. In her seminal work, Trauma and Recovery, Herman describes trauma as an event that "overwhelms the ordinary systems of care that give people a sense of control, connection, and meaning". Unlike everyday misfortunes, traumatic events typically involve threats to life or bodily integrity or a close personal encounter with violence and death. Herman’s definition emphasises the profound impact of trauma on a person’s psychological and emotional state, which often leads to feelings of helplessness, hopelessness and terror that can linger for a lifetime if left unaddressed.
Exploring Trauma Recovery
At Time2Talk, we use the Tri-phasic model as a foundational framework for trauma recovery, guiding individuals through three key phases: stabilisation, reprocessing, and integration. The stabilisation phase focuses on establishing safety and coping strategies. The reprocessing phase involves exploring and processing emotions and memories, and the integration phase synthesises insights for everyday life. This model is especially effective for addressing trauma, empowering survivors to reclaim agency and cultivate well-being.
Common Symptoms and Presentations
Symptoms of trauma can manifest in various complex ways, affecting individuals psychologically and emotionally. Intrusive memories can be distressing, resurfacing unexpectedly and causing intense emotional reactions. Emotional numbness can lead to a sense of detachment and emptiness.
Trauma survivors may also experience hypervigilance, being constantly alert to potential threats, leading to exhaustion and anxiety. Avoidance behaviours may also develop as a coping mechanism to evade triggers. Recognising these signs is crucial for healing through support, counselling, and self-care practices.
Building Resilience
Resilience is the ability to withstand and recover from difficult situations, impacting how individuals navigate trauma and adversity. It involves psychological, emotional, and social factors contributing to one's ability to bounce back and thrive. Cultivating resilience equips individuals with a powerful coping tool. Mindfulness practices like meditation and deep breathing enhance self-awareness and emotional regulation, aiding in managing stress and trauma. For example, engaging in creative pursuits and counselling provides a therapeutic outlet for processing emotions. Fostering meaningful connections with others offers support during adversity. Building relationships with friends, family, therapy, or support groups provides a sense of belonging, empathy, and understanding that enhances resilience, fostering inner strength for trauma recovery and personal growth.
Supporting Trauma Recovery
As a seasoned practitioner in trauma recovery, I blend my rich experience and expertise to facilitate recovery and post-traumatic growth by using evidence-based modalities like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Narrative Therapy Skills and Cognitive and Emotional techniques structured within a tri-phasic framework.
"The conflict between the will to deny horrible events and the will to proclaim them aloud is the central dialectic of psychological trauma" - Dr Judith Herman.
In the realm of trauma recovery, each individual's journey is unique and marked by resilience, healing, and transformation. Embracing the shadows of the past with courage and compassion paves the way for a brighter, empowered future.
If you're on a journey to recover from trauma, I warmly encourage you to discover our supportive services at Time2Talk. Our approach is not just about helping you move beyond the profound impacts of your past experiences; it's about empowering you to take control of your life, your story, and your personal growth. At Time2Talk, we replace the judgmental question of "What's wrong with you?" with a compassionate inquiry: "What has happened to you?" (Dr Bruce Perry & Oprah Winfrey, 2001). This shift in perspective aims to understand the unique events and forces that have shaped you, fostering an environment of empathy and understanding. I am hopeful that in finding your inner strength and resilience, you will light up your path toward a healing and fulfilling recovery. Here's to your success on this transformative journey.
Comments