Trauma and Stressor
Trauma and Stressor-Related disorders are a category of mental and emotional issues that can result from early childhood abusive and frightening experiences. These traumas and stresses can come in the form of physical or sexual abuse, physical or sexual assault, or even neglect, abuse or family turmoil. As victims, these individuals often suffer physical and/or psychological symptoms such as anger, depression, anxiety, and other emotional issues that cause them distress. Unfortunately, there is often no clear line between traumas experienced during childhood and adult years. However, there are behaviors indicative of trauma and stressor issues that an experienced individual may display.
Trauma and Stressor-Related disorders have risen to epidemic proportions in the United States. In addition to adults, there are more children and teenagers suffering from these disorders as well. With these cases, there is increased attention being paid to the underlying issues surrounding these disorders. Some of the most common conditions associated with trauma and stress disorders include Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Major Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). In recent years, substance abuse and dependence has also been associated with these types of mental disorders.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, also known as PTSD, is an intense emotional reaction to a terrifying event. Symptoms include flashbacks, nightmares, intense fear, insomnia, nightmares, and avoidance behaviors such as numbing oneself to the feelings of panic. Frequently PTSD victims develop long-term avoidance behaviors such as avoidance of places, people, and activities that they associate with their frightening past. This type of behavioral pattern is thought to be the result of an overly active conscious control system. Other possible causes for this condition include brain injury, chemical imbalances in the brain, or biological vulnerability to traumatic events.
Major Depression is another condition that is associated with a traumatic event. It is often associated with significant life changes, such as the death of a loved one or significant other, major changes in personal life, unemployment, and poor health. Major Depression is often treated with counseling, medications, and psychological practices that foster healthy feelings and thoughts. The symptoms of Major Depression can also lead to longer term patterns of unhealthy behavior, such as eating disorders and self-destructive behaviors.
Anxiety is yet another common disorder among those who have been in a traumatic situation. While many people think of anxiety as a reaction to certain stressors, the reality is that anxiety is a normal response to high levels of perceived danger. It is believed that this perception is often related to the survival process that our ancestors used to survive various types of threats in their lives. Many people view Anxiety as a common reaction to high stress levels, and in some cases; it is even considered a positive response. When dealing with Anxiety, it is important to understand that most anxiety disorders, whether they are considered Anxiety or Trauma and Stressor related, can be successfully treated, and in many cases cured, by a medical professional. Those who suffer from Anxiety often find that medical treatment can greatly alleviate the stress and trauma that they are experiencing.
If a trauma and stressor-related disorder are not properly treated, it can lead to more serious consequences, including Psychosomatic Disorder, which is often confused with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Both of these disorders can result in physical and psychological symptoms, such as memory loss, mood swings, panic attacks, fatigue, insomnia, and depression. The treatment for each of these disorders is very different. For example, the medical treatment for PTSD usually requires psychotherapy and sometimes, antidepressants, while the medical treatment for Psychosomatic Disorder requires a person to live an active lifestyle and attempt to eliminate the stressors that cause their disorder. It is imperative that when you go to your doctor that you completely disclose any symptoms that you may have related to either disorder, so that the appropriate treatment can be recommended.
There are several different treatment methods available, depending on the severity of the trauma and the type of disorder. However, the two most common types of treatments are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, and Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), both of which are highly effective. In addition to the use of modern medications, like antidepressants and anxiety medications, several alternative methods are also available that can help to reduce the symptoms of both disorders, as well as prevent future traumas from happening. These include but are not limited to, massage therapy, biofeedback, hypnosis, meditation, yoga and acupuncture.
A trauma and stressor Related Disorder are different for everyone and can be caused by a number of different things. In order to get the best results, it is critical that you work closely with your health care professional to identify the actual cause of your emotional and physical symptoms. Once this is determined, then you can start to address the problem and begin the road to recovery. The emotional and physical symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury are very real and serious. This is why it is important to take immediate action and get the help you need today.