You may have heard excuses for why people avoid treatment. You may have even said them yourself. Perhaps you have said, “I’ll handle this on my own,” or, “I have friends and family that can listen to me, so I don’t need anyone else.” Further, you may have said, “It’s not affecting my life, so I don’t need help.” Regardless of the wording, the theory is the same – you do not believe you need help overcoming your trauma. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Stigma is often what keeps individuals from seeking the trauma treatment that they need to heal.
“Trauma Isn’t Affecting My Life”
Studies show that a substantial number of people struggle with unresolved trauma. Our brains have a way of covering up traumatic events. Sometimes our minds do it in such an effective way that we are unable able to actively acknowledge that we have ever experienced such an event. Likewise, there is a chance that we can experience a trauma response when we are unaware that we have endured trauma at all.
In individuals who have experienced trauma, it is often the case that they are unaware that trauma contributes to automatic responses. What one may consider being a little sad or stressed might actually be a reaction to untreated trauma. This means that a great deal of the negative feelings and sensations we experience throughout our day may be something that is not only diagnosable but also treatable.
“I Don’t Need Treatment for My Trauma”
Science tells us that trauma has the power to change our mind and how it responds to stimuli. This isn’t something that we can control. It’s something that happens to us when we go through a traumatic event.
Likewise, no amount of denial negates that. Untreated trauma can present itself in the form of depression, anxiety, panic attacks, stress, unexplained bouts of anger, substance abuse, and numerous other negative behaviors and feelings. Denial doesn’t make these things go away.
However, professional mental health treatment can make these things go away. Trauma is treatable. There is nothing strong about living with the numerous negative side effects of trauma. It only cripples our ability to excel in life.
“I Have Friends and Family I Can Talk To”
Friends and family can be tremendous sources of continued support. However, chances are likely that they’re not qualified to treat trauma. Even if they are, close loved ones may be unable to provide an objective medical perspective. While it may be more convenient to expect our friends and family to provide the treatment we need, they’re not qualified to treat us. It’s unfair to ask them to play that role.
A professional therapy setting is your best chance to heal from your trauma. Attempting to recover without professional help can seem unbearable. You must be willing to set aside these unhealthy stigmas to begin your healing and recovery journey from trauma.
Stigmas often hold us back from seeking the treatment we need to acknowledge and overcome trauma. However, untreated trauma can be crippling and affect every aspect of your life. It is important to dispel stigmas and reach out for professional help. There’s help out there that can make you stronger and a better person. The Guest House specializes in treating trauma and can give you the tools you need to heal. Call (855) 483-7800 for more information and treatment options.