Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health concern that some people develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. About half of all men and women will experience at least one trauma in their lives such as: combat, a natural disaster, a car accident, sexual assault, physical assault, or the unexpected death of a loved one. It’s normal to think, act, and feel differently than usual after a traumatic experience, but if those reactions don’t improve after a few weeks or months, it may be PTSD. Not everyone who experiences a trauma develops PTSD, but for those who do, it can have a serious impact on their life, work, and relationships.
It's important to know that the effects of trauma can show up in our lives in different ways such as, but not limited to: trouble with relationships, difficulty trusting others, difficulty sleeping, the need for perfection, trouble communicating, expressing needs, feelings, and opinions. For many people, a traumatic experience is often relived as an emotional reaction/flashback, not as a memory that can be articulated. Responses to trauma can also look like chronic feeling of emptiness; wanting control; and feeling on guard all the time.
Samaritan therapist, Lauren Johnson has worked with clients of all ages who have experienced trauma and offers guidance for those struggling with PTSD. “One of the things I have learned about trauma is that the body remembers the trauma. Therefore, learning how the mind and body work together has been helpful in treating PTSD. Someinterventions that have been helpful with my clients have been grounding techniques, where you bring yourself into the present by getting in touch with your senses. Moving your body gives your body its release of endorphins and can shift your body's response. Self-care and allowing your emotions to just be is also important. Allow yourself to process the emotions with patience. There is hope when dealing with trauma and PTSD when you're connected to a mental health professional that can help you find healing from your past. It is a joy for me to have been part of someone’s journey when they find healing and forgiveness.”
We are here to help! If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of PTSD, call us at 909-985-0513 to schedule a counseling appointment.