Trauma is generally considered to be a psychological injury that occurs in reaction to an intensely distressing experience. These experiences can range from upsetting events, such as an accident or the loss of a loved one, to more extreme events, such as rape, war, or a natural disaster. Following such an adverse event, it’s normal and natural to experience a short period of psychological distress. Symptoms present differently from person-to-person but often include feelings of fear, anxiety, sadness, anger, and guilt; sleep and appetite problems are also common. A majority of people find that these symptoms settle down in the days and weeks following the trauma and are then able to move on.
Trauma is generally considered to be a psychological injury that occurs in reaction to an intensely distressing experience. These experiences can range from upsetting events, such as an accident or the loss of a loved one, to more extreme events, such as rape, war, or a natural disaster. Following such an adverse event, it’s normal and natural to experience a short period of psychological distress. Symptoms present differently from person-to-person but often include feelings of fear, anxiety, sadness, anger, and guilt; sleep and appetite problems are also common. A majority of people find that these symptoms settle down in the days and weeks following the trauma and are then able to move on.
For some people, however, the symptoms do not decrease after living through such adverse events and can lead to mental health challenges that interfere with day-to-day life. Individuals who continue to experience significant distress and impairment may be experiencing acute stress disorder (ASD) or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), both of which are diagnosable mental health conditions. These conditions can involve intrusive re-experiencing of traumatic events, avoidance of trauma reminders, and arousal symptoms (such as hypervigilance). As overwhelming and pervasive as such conditions may feel, know that they are treatable.
The treatment of trauma requires a specialized and careful approach by a trained mental health professional. Seek out evidence-based therapy, such as eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), prolonged exposure therapy, or cognitive processing therapy (CPT). Some therapy types involve gradual exposure to reminders of the traumatic experience, though this is not always a necessary component of treatment. Other therapy types that do not involve exposure nonetheless aim to help you recover and live a full and meaningful life.
Find vetted therapists in Washington DC who specialize in trauma below. Therapists have been vetted by the Zencare team for clinically rigorous, quality care. Visit their profiles to watch an introductory video and book a free initial call to find a good fit!
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