Understanding Trauma. Part 1: What Do We Mean When Talking About «Trauma»?
The first thing that comes to mind is a physical injury caused by an external force. Every person knows from their experience what the physical injury is, being exposed to many of them from early childhood, including bruises, scratches, sprains and fractures. Typically, the cause of the injury is an accident, meaning that the injury was not intended damage.
Various circumstances can cause injuries — car accidents, falls, slipping, etc. There are sport, professional, domestic violence, and criminal injuries, classified by severity from minor (short-term effect) to catastrophic (adverse life-altering outcomes). Scars, chronic pain, movement restriction and organ dysfunction — our body is a “memory book” of physical traumas.
Most importantly, these traumas can give rise to anxiety, phobias, mood disturbances, low self-esteem, and a host of other stress-related emotional challenges. The psychological aftermath may result in a reduced quality of life and a diminished capacity to experience joy and pleasure. For certain individuals, the psychological impact of trauma eclipses the physical repercussions.
Why does this happen?
A single, universal answer is elusive due to the unique vulnerabilities of each individual. Typically, people tend to prioritize physical consequences, which are minimal in the case of minor injuries. Unfortunately, many often completely ignore the psychological consequences of trauma.
A couple of years ago, I was riding an electric scooter after the rain. The speed was low; however, I did not calculate my capabilities, hit the obstacle, and fell. I flew over the steering wheel and plopped down on asphalt right in front of the shopping mall. It happened so quickly and unexpectedly that I didn’t even have time to get scared.
The concerned security guard from the mall rushed to help me, but I was fine — I stood up, dusted myself off, and didn’t feel that much pain. I examined myself to ensure that nothing was broken; there were just several scratches, and my clothes were dirty. I didn’t need any help and continued riding my scooter as if nothing happened. I was so-called “on adrenaline”.
Later, I was processing what had happened, and my thoughts began to swirl around possible consequences — “I could have been injured more seriously”, “I could break my leg or arm”, “I could break my smartphone”… Although the physical effects were completely resolved within two weeks, I am still experiencing the psychological consequences of this accident.
What are they?
First, I have become much more cautious and ride my scooter much less than before with less enjoyment.
Second, I have become more attentive, carefully look at the road and possible small obstacles (stones, branches and puddles), and ride at the lowest speed.
Third, I have become more anxious when my wife or daughter takes a scooter.
Lesson to learn:
Trauma has consequences, which can be physical and psychological, and both need to be taken into account. Always!
Resources such as online mental health treatment, virtual cognitive behavioral therapy, virtual psychotherapy and online mental health counseling, can provide support to help you process and overcome the emotional aftermath of trauma. Whether you need to speak to a psychologist online or book a psychotherapy appointment, taking care of your mental health is just as important as healing your physical wounds. If you want to discuss your needs and desires in more depth with qualified specialists, book a free consultation with us today!
D.Avtonomov©