Four Ways Trauma Can Impact Your Mental Health
Experiencing trauma is about more than what happens in the moment. Even after the initial incident(s), these negative experiences can have a profound impact on your body and mental health. As an accredited instructor, certifying Trauma Specialists, Kerri Coaching can help clients recognize the impacts and develop the tools necessary.
Whether it's a single traumatic event or chronic exposure to stressors, trauma can affect us in various ways. Learn more about how this type of stress can manifest in your everyday life and sign up for our certified trauma specialist course now!
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
One of the most well-known mental health conditions resulting from trauma is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Individuals diagnosed with complex PTSD often experience flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts about the traumatic event(s), which can lead to heightened anxiety, sleep disturbances, and difficulty concentrating. According to the UK National Health Service, about one in three people who experience severe trauma, develop PTSD.
Depression and Anxiety
The Mayo Clinic reports trauma can also significantly increase one’s risk of developing depression and anxiety disorders. The overwhelming stress and emotional burden experienced during and after trauma can trigger feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in daily activities. Anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder or panic disorder, may also arise due to heightened fear and hypervigilance. If this describes your condition, one of the best ways to work with trauma is to work with a Certified Trauma Recovery coach!
Substance Abuse and Addiction
It’s also possible for patients who have experienced trauma to be susceptible to developing substance abuse issues and addiction. Trauma can leave individuals feeling emotionally overwhelmed, and they may turn to illicit substances as a means of self-medication or develop a process addictions to numb their pain. Recognizing the link between trauma and substance abuse is crucial in providing appropriate treatment and support and our Certified Trauma Specialist Course can help!
Behavioral Changes
Trauma can also significantly impact an individual's behavior and how they interact with others. Some common behavioral changes include increased irritability, aggression, withdrawal from social activities, and difficulties in forming and maintaining relationships. It is essential to understand that these behavioral changes are often a result of coping mechanisms. Contact Kerri Coaching to learn how I can support you.
Navigate Complex Trauma & Find Healing
Trauma can have long-lasting effects on an individual, but it doesn’t have to be this way forever. Discover the best ways to work with trauma and work with Kerri McKenna Reece, a Certified Trauma Recovery Coach. Recovery is possible — start yours today!