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Trauma is an unforeseen development or occurrence that can negatively impact your life — especially if you do not seek professional help. The mental health practitioners at Momentum Health Group in South Carolina, Illinois, and New York, led by Victoria Nieman, LCPC, offer compassionate care and superior knowledge on how to counsel a patient through trauma. Our trauma expertise and highly personalized treatment plans help patients navigate the symptoms of trauma, leading to a thriving life. To learn more, call or use the online scheduling tool now.
What is trauma?
Trauma refers to an emotional and psychological response to a deeply distressing or disturbing event that overwhelms your ability to cope. It often leaves a lasting impact on your mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
Trauma can result from a single incident or prolonged or repeated exposure to adverse events.
What are the symptoms of trauma?
Symptoms of trauma often include:
Emotional symptoms
Trauma can cause intense feelings of sadness, anger, or fear. You may experience emotional numbness or detachment, mood swings, and irritability.
Cognitive symptoms
Cognitive symptoms often include intrusive memories or flashbacks of the traumatic event. Nightmares are frequent, and you may have difficulty concentrating and experience memory problems.
Physical symptoms
Trauma can manifest physically through fatigue and exhaustion. Insomnia or other sleep disturbances are common, along with physical aches and pains that have no clear medical cause.
Behavioral symptoms
Behavioral changes are another hallmark of trauma. You may choose to avoid reminders of the traumatic event, withdraw from social activities, and exhibit changes in eating and sleeping habits.
What causes trauma?
Common causes of trauma include the following:
- Accidents (car crashes, falls, or workplace injuries)
- Natural disasters (earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, or wildfires)
- Violence (physical assault, domestic violence, or war-related experiences)
- Abuse and neglect (childhood abuse, sexual assault, or emotional neglect)
- Loss (sudden death of a loved one or a significant life change like divorce)
No matter the cause, the Momentum Health Group team can help you overcome the challenges of trauma.
How is trauma treated?
The Momentum Health Group team tailors treatments to your specific needs, including:
Psychotherapy
Various approaches are:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help you identify and change negative thought patterns
- Trauma-focused therapy to address trauma symptoms, providing targeted interventions to alleviate distress and promote healing
Your provider may use one or more of these strategies.
Medication
Your provider may refer you to get a psychiatric evaluation completed and to talk to a medical provider to discuss the potential benefits of antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications to help manage symptoms if clinically appropriate.
Support groups
Support groups provide a space for you to share experiences and coping strategies.
Mind-body practices
Techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Self-care
Healthy lifestyle habits, such as regular exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate sleep, can support your overall well-being.
Call Momentum Health Group today or book online now for personal guidance, support, and care.