Trauma Made Easy: A Beginner’s Guide to Understanding Trauma
Trauma. It's a buzzword thrown around by influencers, celebrities, and politicians alike. But what does it really mean? This guide aims to demystify trauma, explore its impact, and provide insights into healing.
Getting On The Same Page
Let's start with a definition. According to Merriam-Webster.com, trauma is:
“1a: an injury (such as a wound) to living tissue caused by an extrinsic agent
b: a disordered psychic or behavioral state resulting from severe mental or emotional stress or physical injury
c: an emotional upset
2: an agent, force, or mechanism that causes trauma”
So basically… trauma occurs when something causes physical or emotional harm. But it's not always clear-cut. What may be traumatic for one person might not be for another, depending on how they respond to the situation.
The Two Faces Of Trauma: Big T and Little t
There are two main types of trauma: Big T and Little t. Big T trauma includes events like war, assault, or natural disasters—things you'd expect to see in the headlines. Little t trauma is subtler and often overlooked, like neglect, chronic illness, or bullying. Both can have a profound impact on mental health but are not treated similarly by others. Some may minimize Little t trauma and negate a persons experience.
Trauma's Impact
Regardless of the type of trauma, or others’ opinions, any type of trauma can lead to anxiety, depression, physical pain, and more. It affects everyone differently, with some experiencing severe symptoms while others seem unaffected. Understanding this individual variability is key to providing effective support.
How To Deal With Trauma
There are various approaches to coping with trauma such as group therapy, mindfulness practices, support groups, etc. Individual therapy can be very effective (although I may be biased). Finding the right approach depends on your unique needs and preferences.
Personally I have found that a mix of Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to be great at supporting an individual with processing past trauma. They each can provide different skills and techniques that can help heal the past while dealing with the present.
Finding Help
If you're seeking therapy, don't settle for the first option. Take the time to find a therapist who understands your needs and makes you feel comfortable. If you're supporting someone else through trauma, show empathy, encourage them to seek help, and provide a safe space for them to share their experiences.
Dealing with trauma isn't easy, but it's not hopeless either. With the right support and resources, healing is possible.
At 1st Degree of Change , we offer therapy that address trauma, anxiety and adhd, serving individuals with online therapy and telehealth available anywhere in Arizona, Florida and Massachusetts.
To get started, or if you have questions about helping yourself or a loved one, call us or schedule a free consultation today so we can talk about how things can change for the better.
References
"Trauma." Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary. Accessed 9 Mar. 2024. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/trauma
