The way one person deals with a traumatic event may be very different from the way the next person handles it. Each woman has her own coping mechanisms. What happens when someone cannot efficiently cope with trauma? How does someone suffer psychological trauma, and what are the effects of it?
What Is Psychological Trauma?
Psychological trauma is what happens to a person who is so overwhelmed after going through a traumatic event or situation; she cannot process the trauma and move past it. The stress and the negative feelings are too much for her to handle. She may shut down, or her mind may completely disassociate.
Trauma is not necessarily a one-time event, such as the death of a loved one. It may also be an ongoing situation, like physical or sexual abuse.
Even if it is a one-time occurrence, a traumatized individual will not process it like a past event. She will feel the same emotions as if it is still going on. She feels anxious, stressed, or numb.
The Link Between Psychological Trauma and Substance Abuse
When someone is suffering psychological or emotional trauma, her negative feelings do not go away. Because she has not been able to deal with the event or situation productively, she may choose unhealthy outlets in which to bury those feelings. This includes drug and alcohol abuse.
Trauma is a significant factor in substance use disorder. People often try to escape their overwhelming feelings of negativity and fear by using. Although a high is usually short-lived, it gives them the momentary peace they so desperately want. However, using is no substitute for real order, as it only leads to more problems, including the need for substance abuse treatment.
Then, some people start with drug and alcohol abuse and wind up suffering trauma. The more buried someone gets into substance abuse, the more likely she is to engage in risky behaviors, such as driving under the influence or having unsafe sex.
The link between trauma and substance abuse goes both ways.
There are much better ways to cope with a traumatic event or situation. If you have had no success overcoming psychological trauma on your own, help is available.
Healing Begins Here
The Willows is a womens treatment center in Fairview, North Carolina. Our comfortable facility is for women only, and it is designed to be a safe, supportive space where clients can heal in peace and tranquility.
The services we offer include:
- Trauma therapy
- Experiential therapy
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- PHP and outpatient treatment
- Aftercare
Our compassionate team provides treatment for eating and mental health disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Along with regular therapy sessions, clients participate in enjoyable outdoor activities, such as horseback riding and gardening.
No matter what your past may look like, your future can be completely different. Contact our friendly staff today at 855-773-0614 to learn how we can help you past your psychological trauma.
