Experience a life free from trauma

Trauma is defined by the American Psychological Association (APA) as the emotional response someone has to an extremely negative event. While trauma is a normal reaction to a horrible event, the effects can be so severe that they interfere with an individual’s ability to live a normal life. In a case such as this, help may be needed to treat the stress and dysfunction caused by the traumatic event and to restore the individual to a state of emotional well-being. 

Trauma is often but not always associated with being present at the site of a trauma-inducing event. It is also possible to sustain trauma after witnessing something from a distance. Young children are especially vulnerable to trauma and should be psychologically examined after a traumatic event has occurred to ensure their emotional well-being.

Trauma can be caused by an overwhelmingly negative event that causes a lasting impact on the victim’s mental and emotional stability. While many sources of trauma are physically violent in nature, others are psychological. 

* Rape

* Domestic violence

* Natural disasters

* Severe illness or injury

* The death of a loved one

* Witnessing an act of violence

* Being involved in war or conflict

No matter how the trauma was caused, the effects are usually very similar.  These may include -

* Avoiding anything that reminds you of the incident. Places and
objects that bring back negative memories and emotions.

* Flashbacks of the event

* Unwanted feelings of worthlessness

* A constant need to stay safe in every situation

* Feeling everyday situations may be life threatening

* Poor and/or disturbed sleep

* Feelings of alienation

* Depressive, even suicidal thoughts