Trauma

What is trauma?

Trauma is an emotional response to an event or series of events that feels overwhelming, frightening, or threatening. While people often associate trauma with major life events, trauma can affect anyone differently. An experience that feels manageable for one person may have a lasting impact on someone else.

Trauma may result from a single event, such as a serious accident or natural disaster, or from ongoing experiences like abuse, neglect, violence, or chronic stress. In some cases, witnessing a traumatic event or supporting someone through one can also lead to emotional distress.

A comprehensive psychiatric evaluation helps your provider understand how past experiences may be affecting your mental health while identifying any related conditions, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

What are the effects of trauma?

The effects of trauma vary from person to person and may appear immediately or develop over time.

Common symptoms include:

• Persistent anxiety or fear
• Feeling emotionally numb or detached
• Irritability or mood changes
• Difficulty sleeping or frequent nightmares
• Trouble concentrating
• Avoiding places, people, or situations that remind you of the traumatic event
• Feeling constantly on edge or easily startled
• Physical symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension, or digestive concerns

Left untreated, trauma can affect your relationships, work, physical health, and overall quality of life. Fortunately, effective treatment can help you manage symptoms and begin moving forward.

How is trauma treated?

Your trauma treatment begins with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to better understand your symptoms, medical history, and personal goals. Based on your individual needs, your provider develops a personalized treatment plan designed to help reduce distress and improve your daily functioning.

Treatment may include:

• Comprehensive psychiatric evaluation
• Medication management, when appropriate
• Education about trauma and its effects
• Ongoing telehealth follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and adjust treatment as needed
• Coordination with your therapist or other healthcare providers, when appropriate

Healing from trauma is a gradual process, and your treatment plan is designed to evolve as your needs change over time.

If trauma is affecting your mental health or making it difficult to enjoy daily life, Oasis Health and Wellness can help. Call the office or book your telehealth appointment online today.