Trauma is a term that is often associated with significant life events like natural disasters or acts of violence, but it can also refer to any experience that overwhelms our ability to cope. These big traumatic events are often called “big T” traumas. Examples of “big T” traumas are sexual abuse, physical abuse, severe car accidents, and anything that puts a person in real danger. “Little t” traumas are highly stressful events that are not life-threatening, such as infidelity, bullying, emotional abuse, the death of a loved one or pet, and the loss of significant relationships. In this blog post, we’ll explore the impact of trauma on mental health, including the symptoms of trauma and the importance of seeking help for recovery.
Experiencing trauma can have a profound impact on mental health, with many people experiencing symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, and avoidance behaviors. Trauma can also contribute to feelings of anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions, as well as physical symptoms like chronic pain, stomach pain, digestive issues, and headaches.
Not everyone experiences trauma, big or little, in the same way. Two people could be in a severe car accident together. One may never be comfortable getting behind the wheel again. The other might be fine or only experience mild discomfort when they go back to driving. The thing that makes the difference is called resiliency factors.
So, what does it mean to be resilient? Resiliency is the ability to bounce back. People who were raised in stable homes with good boundaries, both emotional and physical, have a sense of cohesion with others, a sense of humor, a tolerance for delayed gratification, and a sense of belonging in their community will likely be more resilient than people who do not have those skills and social supports.
If you have experienced trauma, it’s essential to seek help from a mental health professional who can provide support and guidance on the path to recovery. Through therapy, medication, and other forms of treatment, it is possible to work through the effects of trauma and find a path toward healing and well-being.
Kelly Sheridan, owner of Sacred Circle Counseling, is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in helping people heal from trauma, become better parents, and live more genuine lives. She graduated with her Masters of Science degree from Capella University in early fall 2021. She completed her internship and began her residency at a residential treatment facility for children ages 6-21 with co-morbid mental health diagnoses. She then completed her residency at a Children’s Advocacy Center, helping children and families who have disclosed physical abuse, sexual abuse, or neglect in a forensic interview, not only providing treatment to help them heal from the traumatic events they experienced but helping them navigate the confusing path of criminal trials and testifying. “I love working with families and individuals who want to heal from the things haunting them from their past.”