The impact of trauma experiences are a sad reality globally. The World Health Organization reports that around 70% of people worldwide will experience a potentially traumatic event in their lifetime.
Of these, only a minority of around 5.6% will later develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), while an estimated 3.9% of the world’s population will experience it at some point in their lives.
Many of those affected by trauma hide from its impact for far too long for a variety of reasons. They often lack the courage or are so ashamed that they suffer in silence.
This article provides inspiration on ways to heal various traumas.
Trauma from childhood also leaves its mark on many adults for the rest of their lives. Neglect and exclusion suffered at an early age often lead to long-lasting psychological consequences. These manifest themselves in anxiety, mistrust and difficulties in interpersonal relationships. Professionals, especially licensed therapists, are essential for processing and healing such traumas. Cognitive behavioral therapy and EMDR are proven methods used by therapists to support healing processes.
It often comes without warning and has a paralyzing effect. Trauma from childhood often manifests itself in nervousness, shortness of breath and sweating. Breathing exercises are a proven method of calming yourself down.
Breathing in and out deeply can have a calming effect and is a technique that can be used immediately to bring the body out of a state of hyper-arousal. A simple method is the 4-7-8 technique, where you inhale for four seconds, hold your breath for seven seconds and exhale for eight seconds.
To get out of the flood of memories, it can help to concentrate on the five senses. Name out loud or in your mind five things that you can see, four that you can feel, three that you can hear, two that you can smell and one that you can taste. This exercise can help you to anchor yourself in the here and now again.
CPTSD, or complex post-traumatic stress disorder, often develops as a result of prolonged and repeated traumatic events. This condition manifests itself in emotional instability, intense flashbacks and persistent post-traumatic stress disorder, which can have a significant impact on everyday life. Early recognition of the symptoms forms the basis for successful treatment. Typical signs include relationship problems, deep-rooted mistrust and persistent, recurring grief.
Establishing a strong social support network is highly recommended to help manage this condition. Integration into support groups and regular visits to a therapist can significantly contribute to symptom relief. These communities offer not only emotional support, but also practical strategies for dealing with the daily challenges of the disorder. By sharing with others who have had similar experiences, sufferers often find a deeper understanding of their own reactions and feelings.
PTSD and CPTSD share many symptoms, but there are essential differences in their causes and effects. Often, PTSD results from a single, isolated traumatic event, such as an accident or assault. On the other hand, CPTSD stems from prolonged, repeated traumatization, like experiences in war zones or enduring long-term abuse.
In the USA, around 5% of adults suffer from PTSD, including a disproportionate number of women. This corresponds to around 13 million people in 2020. Sleep disorders, irritability and nightmares are among the most common symptoms, often accompanied by avoidance behavior.
Cognitive behavioral therapy and EMDR are effective treatments that help to modify trauma-related thought and behavior patterns and reduce emotional distress. A structured sleep schedule and mindfulness-based exercises promote emotional stability. In addition, regular physical activities such as jogging or yoga support the reduction of stress hormones and increase well-being.
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