Trauma is an emotional response to a terrible event in a person’s life. Traumatic events can affect you physically and psychologically. In the most severe cases, they can lead to the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). If you’re struggling with trauma, a PTSD treatment program offers the help you need.
At Promises, we offer services that can address your exact needs. From inpatient to aftercare, we can guide your journey as you recover from trauma and any mental health conditions it has caused. Contact our team by calling 844.875.5609 to learn more about our treatment options for managing trauma.
Understanding Types and Symptoms of Trauma
Trauma can be acute, chronic, or complex. Acute trauma usually occurs from one event that is traumatic enough to leave psychological scars. Some of the most common examples of events that lead to acute trauma include:
- Accidents
- Natural disasters
- Sudden loss of a loved one
- Physical or sexual assault
- Diagnosis of a life-threatening condition
Chronic trauma, on the other hand, occurs as a result of a series of traumatic events. These can be connected or unrelated events that occur in rapid succession, during which you have little time to process before the next one strikes.
Typically, the symptoms of trauma don’t begin as quickly as with acute trauma but can simmer until they’re triggered by another stressor. Chronic trauma can occur from:
- Bullying
- Domestic violence
- Ongoing sexual abuse
- Long-term illness
Complex trauma is similar to chronic trauma but with one additional criterion: The events that caused the trauma were prompted by a parent or caregiver. It can include witnessing repeated abuse or suffering from repeated abuse and neglect by a parent or caregiver.
The Long-Term Impact of Trauma
The impact of trauma can be immediate, but it can also result in long-term effects, especially if it goes untreated.
The Long-Term Physical Impact of the Trauma Response
Trauma causes significant stress, which impacts the body. Stress hormones can cause system-wide inflammation that can result in heart disease, diabetes, and digestive issues. It can also cause inflammation in the brain, leading to similar effects as having experienced a mild concussion. You can even suffer cognitive decline.
Chronic inflammation because of high levels of stress can put you at risk of developing an autoimmune disease, as well.
Emotional and Psychological Impact of the Trauma Response
People who have experienced trauma, whether acute, chronic, or complex, have a higher risk of developing mental health concerns like depression, anxiety, and PTSD. To deal with the symptoms of these conditions, people often turn to substances like alcohol and drugs, which puts them at risk of developing a substance use disorder.
Some people also develop self-harming tendencies and struggle with suicidal ideation, while others engage in risky behaviors that make re-traumatization likely. People who’ve suffered trauma can also have a hard time building lasting relationships and could face self-esteem issues that prevent them from living their lives as they deserve.
Promises: Start the Road to Recovery with PTSD Treatment Today
If you suffer from PTSD or any other mental health concerns related to trauma, the most effective way to get through them is to get professional care. At Promises, we offer a variety of programs that can help you target the trauma you’ve experienced and the impact it’s had on your life.
We offer residential care that removes you from your regular environment, as well as outpatient options for those who can’t step away from their lives. If you have a substance use disorder, we also provide programs that can help you through these challenges. Use our online contact form or call us today at 844.875.5609 to speak with a member of our team.