Trauma, PTSD & Dissociation

The World Health Organization considers Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and EMDR Therapy as two frontline therapies for the treatment of PTSD.

Did you know?

Around 75% of Australian adults have experienced a traumatic event at some point in their life.
Productivity Commission estimates based on data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics 2009
Around 25% of people who experience a traumatic event go on to develop Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
2007 National Survey of Mental Health & Wellbeing
Some 12% of Australians experience PTSD in their life (lifetime prevalence), with women more likely to experience it than men (15.8% and 8.6% respectively).
Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2008

What is trauma?

Trauma is defined as an experience that overwhelms the body, thoughts, and emotions, and it can be caused by, though not limited to, exposure to actual or threatened death, serious injury, or sexual violence. While almost everyone who experiences trauma will be emotionally affected, not everyone will respond in the same way. Traumatic events are stored differently in the brain and body, making it difficult for individuals to process and come to terms with what has happened. This can have a significant impact on memory, moods, emotions, and feelings of safety. Trauma can lead to sudden and unpredictable emotions, panic attacks, sleep difficulties, numbing/shutting down, social problems and physiological responses such as sweating, headaches, and nausea. Additionally, trauma can shatter one's beliefs about the world, people, and personal control. It is important to recognize the signs of trauma and seek professional help when necessary. Coping and healing from traumatic events can be a long and challenging process, but it is possible with the right support and resources.

What triggers PTSD?

The chance of developing Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) after a traumatic event(s) depends on factors such as past mental health, genetics, and support systems. Most people recover with support, but for some, the effects can persist and develop into PTSD. Symptoms include reliving the event, feeling wound up, avoiding reminders, and experiencing negative thoughts and emotions. Another important factor is a perceived sense of loss of control during the time of the traumatising event, where the individual feels powerless during the event and sometimes after the event. The more control an individual feels they have, the better the outcome for their wellbeing.

Complex PTSD

Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) is a more severe and complex form of PTSD. While both C-PTSD and PTSD can develop after experiencing a traumatic event, C-PTSD often results from prolonged or repeated exposure to trauma, such as childhood abuse, neglect, or domestic violence. Unlike PTSD, C-PTSD is characterised by difficulties in emotional regulation, self-esteem, interpersonal relationships, and a distorted sense of self. People with C-PTSD may experience flashbacks, nightmares, and avoidance behaviours like those with PTSD, but they may also have dissociative symptoms, ongoing feelings of shame, guilt, and self-blame.
Therapy for Trauma (EMDR)

Symptoms of PTSD

  • Re-experiencing
  • Flashbacks
  • Nightmares
  • Avoidance
  • Avoidance of thoughts, feelings, conversations
  • Avoidance of people, places and activities
  • Sense of threat/hypervigilance

Symptoms of Complex PTSD

  • Re-experiencing
  • Flashbacks
  • Nightmares
  • Avoidance
  • Avoidance of thoughts, feelings, conversations
  • Avoidance of people, places and activities
  • Sense of threat/hypervigilance
  • Emotion regulation difficulties (anger, mood swings)
  • Negative self-concept
  • Feeling worthless and/or guilty
  • Feeling disconnected from others
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Dissociation

In psychological terms, dissociation is a coping strategy that helps a person disconnect from traumatic events experienced. From mild symptoms like zoning out of conversations to severe symptoms such as developing multiple personalities. The brain adapts by keeping memories from affecting daily life. This coping mechanism disconnects people from reality or causes them to take on different personalities to deal with the traumatic event. Psychologists refer to this as personality "parts" or "selves" which get "stuck" in time from when the trauma was experienced. For example, hearing someone yell may trigger a reaction in someone who has experienced physical abuse.
Resources
EMDR THERAPY
Aspiring Minds Counselling
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