Trauma
Much of my work in clinic is connected to trauma. I have always been interested and passionate learning about relational trauma. My current training is very much connected to attachment and trauma in regards to relationships. This is a holistic approach and very much depth therapy and somatic. Trauma can impact an individuals’ physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. Defined as a deeply distressing or disturbing experience, trauma can result from a wide range of events, including but not limited to violence, accidents, and natural disasters. I like to think and translate trauma as a wound by something or someone that has threatened us, it involves a stress response. At times this trauma can be connected to early years of life and linked to attachment. Attachment is togetherness, being liked, sense of belonging, sameness, have significance and beyond. Our culture can lead to diagnosis and for some this can be shaming whilst for others they find great relief.
Throughout history, trauma has been viewed through various lenses. From ancient civilisations using rituals to cope with traumatic events to Freud’s exploration of the unconscious mind, understanding trauma has evolved over time. Acute trauma is unexpected and intense. It usually results from a single distressing event, such as a car accident or incident. Complex trauma is a series of prolonged and repetitive traumatic experiences. This type of trauma often occurs in situations of ongoing abuse or neglect. Developmental trauma impacts one’s emotional and psychological development during childhood. It can stem from early disruptions in attachment and caregiving relationships. In clinic I speak about emotional wounds and explain trauma like the red, amber and green light system. Part of trauma work is slowness and connecting to the body while looking forwards. What is one persons trauma may not be another. It is important to bring compassion to our experience as many compare to others as feel they “shouldn’t complain about their experience”. It is never viewed as complaining. It is important to process if we have feelings.
Trauma can lead to changes in brain function, affecting areas responsible for memory, emotions, and stress response. It can result in various mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and difficulty forming relationships. The emotional responses are your brain’s way of trying to make sense of what happened, even if it feels like a messy jigsaw puzzle at times. Trauma can make you do some unexpected things. You might withdraw from others, lash out in anger, or find it hard to concentrate.
Self-care isn’t just bubble baths and scented candles (though those can help too!). It’s about treating yourself with kindness and compassion, like you would a friend in need. Whether it’s journaling, going for a walk in nature, or belting out your favourite song in the shower, finding what nourishes your spirit can be a crucial tool in your trauma recovery toolkit. Safety isn’t just about locks on doors; it’s about feeling secure in your mind and heart. Creating safe spaces for those who have experienced trauma can make all the difference in their healing journey. Whether it’s a supportive workplace, a trauma-informed school, or a compassionate community, knowing you’re not alone can be the beacon of hope in a stormy sea.
As a psychologist my interest is in trauma and I welcome many clients with this in clinic. I feel professionals working with trauma should have additional training. Over the years I’ve completed many courses and currently studying Somatic Attachment Therapy which is about relational dynamics and trauma.
