Traumatic experiences can change your life forever. These events are life-changing because the experience of the event put you or someone close to you at the risk of death or harm. Some events that change the lives of people forever include;
- Serious health problems
- Violence or continuous abuse
- Accidents
- Natural Disasters
If you have been through any of the above events or any other traumatic experience, you know how tough life can get. After the tragic event, your body is in defence mode and it creates stress. The effect of trauma have a big impact on your emotions and your body produces chemicals to be ready for any type of emergency. However, in the process, your body can have many health-related problems. Some of the common problems post a traumatic event include;
- Higher blood pressure
- Loss of appetite
- Increased heart rate
- Excessive sweating
All the symptoms are normal as this is the reaction of the body to the shock of trauma. These problems can be overcome with medication. However, the real problems occur when the trauma has a severe impact on your mental health. Common mental health problems can be divided into post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression.
Depression
Depression is a state of the mind which appears suddenly or gradually after a simple or severe psychological or emotional trauma that occurs in our lives occasionally. Depression causes extreme emotions of negativity, anxiety and helplessness. One of the best ways to overcome depression is through counselling or psychotherapy. Often anti-depressants are also recommended with a combination of therapies.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) causes stress and anxiety for the long term. The person suffering from it often goes through nightmares, bad sleep, poor concentration and panic attacks. The best way to overcome PTSD is by consulting a psychologist. Anti-depressant tablets are also prescribed to the person suffering from PTSD.
Measures to Overcome Trauma
People suffering from mental health problems can try these measures to overcome the trauma.
Family and Friend Support
When you are going through a trauma seeking the help of family members and friends is the best approach. Talk to them about your experiences and how you feel. This will help you in relieving the burden of things going in your head. Also, their company will help you in diverting your attention towards other things.
Face the Truth
Most mental health-related problems occur when you try to avoid facing the reality. Avoiding reality can lead to more stress and anxiety. You need to cope up with the situation and find healthy ways to overcome the problem. Facing the truth will help you in moving on in life.
Be Patient
Never forget that when you are recovering from a traumatic event, it will take time. Give time to yourself and be patient. As the days will pass, you will gradually start getting better.
Follow a Routine
Traumatic events interrupt your regular life. Stress, anxiety, depression, panic attacks, etc. replace your daily routine. To overcome trauma, you need to get back to a routine, so that you do not have spare time to think of the traumatic event. Following a routine will help you in feeling normal and gaining back control of your life.
The above mentioned are some of the ways to overcome the effect of trauma on mental health. Seeking the help of a professional is the best way to follow. If you want to learn about ways to overcome mental health you may get in touch with Living In Wellbeing’s expert counsellors.
