Much of my work in clinic is connected to trauma. In recent years I am interested and passionate about relational trauma. 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.
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.
Trauma can lead to changes in brain function, affecting areas responsible for memory, emotions, and stress response. The psychological aftermath of trauma can feel like a rollercoaster ride. It can result in various mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and difficulty forming relationships When it comes to trauma, our emotions can go on a wild rollercoaster ride. These 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.
