TRAUMA AND PTSD
I worked for 2 years at an NGO who specialised in the treatment of trauma and PTSD and during this time managed a team of psychologists and social workers and helped to develop a specialised treatment model for individual and families affected by political trauma.
Many people experience a traumatic
event at some point in their lives.
This can be a car accident, abuse or neglect, sexual assault, the sudden death of a loved one, a violent criminal act, exposure to violence of war or political unrest, or a natural disaster.
People react in different ways to
the effects of trauma.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
PTSD is a psychological reaction to a severely stressful situation that is often physically threatening, resulting in anxiety, flashbacks, hyper-vigilance, depression, suicidal thoughts and other mental health concerns. The symptoms of PTSD can make it very difficult to continue with normal life and the following usually interferes with normal functioning:
Avoidance of specific locations, sights, situations, and sounds that serve as reminders of the event
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Anxiety, depression or numbness
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Feelings of guilt or shame
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Re-experiencing the event through intrusive thoughts or memories of the event, nightmares or flashbacks
Hyper-arousal symptoms such as anger, aggression, shame
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Sleep disturbances
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Loss of interest in activities that was once considered enjoyable
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Memory problems
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Change in habits, relationships or behaviour since the trauma
You do not need to carry the burden of PTSD alone.
Psychotherapy is a very effective form of treatment for healing from the effects of trauma. Sometimes it may also be necessary to combine psychotherapy with medication for the best results. Therapy can help a person to make sense of their feelings and experiences and to develop healthy coping skills. Therapy also helps a person to regain a sense of control over their lives and to develop strategies for self-compassion and to create a positive understanding of oneself and the effects of trauma.