Trauma is something that can follow us for a very long time. Trauma isn’t something we can easily see or prepare ourselves for. It can happen because of one event. It can also occur because of recurring events or a multitude of different ones.
Why We Should Treat Trauma
Studies consistently show that trauma affects everyone differently. Our response to traumatic events varies based on who we are. What happened, where it happened, and why it happened all contribute to the complexity of trauma’s aftershocks that can potentially follow us through our lives. If not treated, trauma can be an agonizing source of anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and countless other impediments to a healthy, happy life. Thankfully, we don’t have to tackle the issues presented by trauma alone.
Methods of Treating Trauma
The list of techniques for treating trauma is far too extensive for this article. However, it is important to know just a few methods that can have a powerful impact in helping us regain control of our lives after a scarring event.
Individual Therapy
Individual therapy is a significant first step to assessing the source and impact of our trauma. Some of us may know full well the details of the event that led to our trauma. However, some of us might not realize that we struggled with a traumatic event at all. Regardless, individual therapy can guide us in diagnosing and potentially treating the source of our PTSD or anxiety resulting from experiencing a traumatic event.
Group Therapy
Although the idea of speaking about deeply personal issues may be daunting, it can be reassuring to be in a group that understands your pain on a more experiential level. While family and friends may be a consistent source of support, the outside perspective of those who have also experienced trauma is an invaluable tool. Often we feel isolated or alone in our difficulties. Group therapy allows us to feel the empathy of others, providing us with the strength and insight to further treat our trauma.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing
A relatively new modality in treating trauma, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), uses guided fixed gazing to access past trauma. Our mind often stores traumatic events poorly, causing unexpected bouts of anxiety, PTSD, depression, and more. EMDR allows us to reprocess and reframe our trauma in a positive, healing way. This technique has been shown to work quickly in patients with severe trauma who may have trouble accessing their memory of it.
Conscious Connected Breathwork
Connecting to our power to soothe and cleanse ourselves is vital in coping with trauma. Learning breathing techniques that help us soothe our anxiety-ridden minds and cleanse ourselves of negative thoughts and feelings empowers us to handle what the day throws at us.
These are just a handful of the treatment approaches available. While methods for treating trauma vary, luckily, the treatment that will benefit us is out there.
Trauma never strikes just once and then disappears. It is waiting on the outskirts of daily life, ready to attack when its victims are least prepared. It can manifest as anxiety, depression, panic, and fear. Trauma can convince us that we are alone and that the emotional pain it caused is just something we must learn to live with. However, we don’t have to. You can take control of your life and heal from trauma’s damaging effects. The Guest House specializes in trauma-informed care for addiction and mental health issues. Call (855) 483-7800 for more information.