Traumatic memories sit in the brain like shadow and resurface at times with unbearable distress.
Unresolved trauma can significantly affect the quality of one’s life.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may occur in people who have experienced or witnessed a shocking or dangerous event such as an assault, a natural disaster, a serious accident, etc. Individuals with PTSD often relive traumatic events through flashbacks or nightmares and experience changes in physical and/or emotional reactions. Symptoms may include being easily startled or frightened, trouble concentrating, overwhelming guilt or shame, feelings of helplessness or sadness, anger outbursts, etc. It is advised to see a professional if the debilitating thoughts and feelings persist for more than a month after the traumatic experience.
The following are the main symptoms of PTSD:
– Intrusive memories: reliving the trauma, for example, through flashbacks or nightmares eliciting significant distress
– Avoidance: trying to avoid places, events, or objects that are reminders of a traumatic experience
– Arousal and reactivity: feeling tense or “on edge,” having difficulty sleeping or concentrating, being easily startled or frightened, etc.
Please contact us if you are currently experiencing any of the symptoms above.
