Traumatic events, such as being assaulted or experiencing a natural disaster, can seriously affect a person’s physical and mental health. How people react to trauma depends on the person and situation. For example, the amount of support one receives following the event and other existing stressors all play a role.
Strong reactions are normal
It is normal to have strong reactions to trauma, which can last for days or weeks. Common responses include:
Although these symptoms can be distressing, they are part of the natural healing process. These reactions can be thought of as the mind and body ‘digesting’ what has occurred. Soon after the event, most people find that their stress gradually subsides.
However, sometimes the distress is severe and/or won’t disappear. In serious cases, people can develop Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Ongoing trauma reactions require professional help and treatment.
There are several things you can do to improve recovery from stressful events, such as:
Seek professional help if you:
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is characterised by an inability to move on from a traumatic event. Sufferers experience prolonged, severe reactions that seriously disrupt their lives. PTSD was once called 'shell shock' or 'battle fatigue syndrome', and was considered to mainly affect war veterans. However, it can result from any traumatic event. People with PTSD require professional treatment.
There are several effective psychological treatments that help people resolve post-trauma problems, such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, which examines the mental processes that are causing the problem and teaches people relaxation techniques and coping strategies. Psychotherapy explores personal values and how the traumatic event affected them. There is also family therapy that may support relatives and help them support the person affected, and group therapy, which encourages survivors of similar traumatic events to share their experiences and reactions. Knowing that others feel and react similarly can be of great relief and comfort.
Medication can help control post trauma symptoms, and it can increase responsiveness to psychological treatment. Only a GP or psychiatrist can prescribe medication. Contact your GP regarding medication options.