Trauma Therapy

Have you ever been in a relationship that you just cannot seem to leave? Or maybe you have witnessed a friend, a family member, or even a coworker deal with a toxic relationship. You may have questioned yourself about why you were holding onto an obviously problematic relationship for so long. And if you are on the outside looking in, you may wonder why your friend, family member, or coworker does not leave the situation they are in or why they have even stayed in it for so long.

Trauma, in a psychological context, is broadly defined as a person’s emotional response to a horrific or terrifying event. Such events may include abuse, sexual assault, a serious car accident, or time served in combat. These are only a few examples and many other events can contribute to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

The environment we live and work in has a huge influence on our mental and physical health. A warm, sunny day at the beach can uplift us after a long, gray winter season. Taking a trip to the mountains can rejuvenate us after bearing with never-ending workdays in the city.

Many already have some idea of what PTSD is. Images of veterans or assault survivors come to mind. However, those who suffer from PTSD are not limited to car accidents, violent attacks, natural disasters, etc. There is a type of PTSD called C-PTSD. The “C” stands for “Complex”. Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is different from just PTSD, and so are the people who experience it. Let’s look at what C-PTSD entails.

Frontline workers have seen and overcome challenge after challenge over the last couple of years. From the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic to this very day, they have taken care of the public, put their own health on the line, and have seen and experienced things they shouldn’t have had to go through.

In the U.S. alone, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) affects 3.5% of adults. Many people think it’s something that only impacts those in the military, but that’s an old stereotype that simply isn’t true.

You’ve probably heard of different attachment styles and how some can be more problematic than others. Having a secure attachment style is ideal because it features the healthiest communication patterns.

Even people who have a basic understanding of PTSD recognize that it’s often made worse by triggers. No matter what you experienced, flashbacks and anxiety can often occur when you’re in specific situations or experience certain things. 

Most people have a basic understanding of PTSD and what it is. But, when you’re living with or dating someone who struggles with it, it’s important to know not only what to expect, but how you can support that person through their struggles.

The COVID-19 pandemic has been a central focus in almost everyone’s lives for well over a year. It often seems like information and advice changes on a daily basis. We are all flooded with news on television, social media, and even from friends and family.