Trauma & Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Have you experienced a trauma?

There are many traumatic experiences that people may encounter in their lives.  A sudden illness, an accident, an assault or a natural disaster are all examples, but the common experience with all, is a situation which may be upsetting and distressing.  

An experience is deemed traumatic when there is a risk of harm or danger to the person involved or others around them.  These experiences are usually frightening, they can cause a lot of stress and people may feel helpless.  Whilst some people are able to cope with the after effects of the traumatic experience, for others the recovery is not as straightforward.

Often a person’s ability to function normally after a traumatic experience is significantly affected because of emotions tied to the event itself or in recalling the experience.  People sometimes do not have anyone they feel comfortable talking to or confiding in about the experience and the effect it has had on them.  Sometimes the feelings experienced can simply feel too much to bear and continue to impact a person’s life long after the event itself.
 

What is post-traumatic stress disorder?

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder that can occur after a traumatic life event. After a traumatic event, 1 in 3 people will experience continued symptoms which may include:

• re-experiencing the trauma through vivid and distressing memories or dreams

• avoiding situations that remind them of the traumatic event

• feeling numb, as though they don't have the same range of feelings as normal

• being in a state of 'alertness' or hyper vigilance - watching out for danger. They cannot relax and may find if very difficult to sleep. They may notice feeling jumpy and irritable.

If you are experiencing symptoms that suggest an instance of PTSD, you should seek professional help.

Other symptoms can include; depression, anxiety, phobias, substance and alcohol misuse and physical symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, sweating, shaking, chest pain and stomach problems. 

 

My Therapist Online Can Help You

My Therapist Online has many experienced therapists who specialise in the treatment of traumas and PTSD. Cognitive behavioural Therapy is a well evidence based treatment for overcoming traumas and PTSD. CBT teaches you the skills to change your thoughts, feelings and negative thought processes you may develop after a traumatic event. Trauma-focused CBT uses mental images of a traumatic event to help you gain control of your distress. You will be helped to find coping strategies. 

Experts in the treatment of trauma

 

Recommended reading about overcoming trauma

  • Overcoming Childhood Trauma: A self Help Guide Using Cognitive Behavioural Techniques - by Dr Helen Kennerley

    A comprehensive and insightful guide that empowers readers to take control of their trauma and heal. The author draws upon her expertise in cognitive behavioural therapy to provide a step-by-step approach to managing and overcoming the effects of childhood trauma. The book is written in a clear and accessible style, and covers a wide range of topics, including managing anxiety and depression, improving self-esteem, and learning to trust again. With practical exercises and techniques to put into practice, this book is an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to overcome the impact of childhood trauma and move towards a happier and more fulfilling life.

  • Overcoming Traumatic Stress by - Claudia Herbert and Ann Westmore

    The authors' compassionate and supportive approach makes "Overcoming Traumatic Stress" a valuable resource for anyone seeking to heal from the impact of trauma.

    It is a comprehensive and empathetic guide for those struggling with the effects of trauma. The authors use a blend of scientific research and practical advice to help readers understand and overcome the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

    The book covers topics such as managing anxiety and anger, improving relationships, and coping with memories and flashbacks, and provides practical tools and techniques for readers to put into practice.


  • The Body Keeps the Score: Mind, Brain and Body in the Transformation of Trauma - Bessel A. van der Kolk

    This is a groundbreaking and illuminating work that delves into the intricacies of trauma and its impact on the mind and body. The author brings together the latest research in neuroscience, psychology, and medicine to create a holistic understanding of trauma and its effects. The book is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, as well as a call to action for mental health professionals to take a more integrated approach to healing trauma. The writing style is engaging and thought-provoking, and the author's wealth of experience and expertise in the field shines through on every page.




We make finding the right therapist easy.

At My Therapist Online, we listen to the problems you are facing and match you with the right therapist for your individual needs. You can meet with them for a free initial consultation to be sure it is a good match before starting your therapy.



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