Some who have witnessed or been the victim of a traumatic experience can be described as having “trauma brain.” In this article, we explore the symptoms of trauma and trauma brain. We also share how to help a loved one suffering after a traumatic experience.
Trauma is a buzzword floating around our communities and media. For good reason. According to The National Council, 70% of adults in the U.S. have experienced at least one traumatic event in their lifetime.
The American Psychological Association defines trauma as “an emotional response to a terrible event.” The event could be a one-time incident, like a natural disaster, a physical attack, or the sudden loss of a loved one. But it could also be a repeated past experience such as ongoing neglect, emotional or physical abuse, or being bullied at home or school.
Research shows three important areas of the brain often change (or adapt) after trauma and function differently. These areas of the brain become under-active or overactive. This has the potential to significantly impact how one processes, interprets and reacts to their traumatic experience as well as future (even non-threatening) experiences.
With these changes, the brain remains stuck in the past traumatic experience. This makes it difficult for victims to access healthy coping mechanisms that are wired into the brain.
So, when an event in the present moment triggers the traumatic memory, the brain begins to act as if it is still in the same danger as the original traumatic experience. This brings up feelings of intense horror, fear, and danger that were experienced at the time of the traumatic event.
Symptoms may appear during, immediately after or after some time has passed since the traumatic experience.
SYMPTOMS OF TRAUMA BRAIN MAY INCLUDE:
As you can see, trauma brain has a significant negative impact on victims. Moreover, these symptoms are mostly out of the victim’s control.
Victims of trauma often don’t understand why they react as they do. Therefore, supporting a loved one through a traumatic experience is invaluable.
1. Understand
Understand that their interpretation of the experience is uniquely their own and acknowledge their reactions and emotions are true for them. Also, understand that that their responses may not be appropriate for a given situation and they may not be able to control their emotions without professional support.
2. Communicate
Open lines of communication and be available if they want to talk (again) about their experience. And, though they may not be able to communicate it well, ask what they need and how you can best support them.
3. Seek Professional Support
Identify and acknowledge that you may not be able to effectively support your loved one through this tough time. Consider scheduling an appointment (for yourself and/or your loved one) with a trauma-informed therapist with specific training to help process trauma and return the brain to its natural functioning
Unresolved trauma can burden someone for years. Learn about the 5 Signs of Unresolved Childhood Trauma in Adults.
Left untreated, trauma can make one feel alone and as if they will never live a happy life. But there is hope. Trauma can be overcome. Returning to a life of peace is possible.
Are you or a loved one struggling with trauma? Request a Free Phone Consultation by completing the brief form below. One of our team members will reach out to learn more about your specific circumstance and discuss whether our practice and which therapist may be a good fit for your needs. We would like to help you live a life you love. We hope to hear from you soon.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Teri Karjala is a Licensed Professional Counselor & Marriage and Family Therapist. She is the founder and Executive Director of Creative Counseling Center, LLC. Working in the field since 1999, Teri and her team of therapists specializes in counseling for those who have experienced trauma. They work with children as young as age 2, as well as teens and adolescents, adults, seniors, families, and couples.
If you have questions about counseling, would like to find out if counseling could help you or a loved one, or are interested in learning more about our services, just complete the brief form below to request a Free Phone Consultation. A member of our team will contact you shortly. After a brief conversation, we'll determine together whether our practice is right for you and which therapist may be best suited for your specific circumstance.
Finding the right therapist, one you click with, is less about the therapist's experience and qualifications and more about the therapist's personality. So let's talk. Let us match you with a therapist you have a high likelihood of clicking with.
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