Counselling for Trauma Related Incidents in Vancouver

Trauma typically refers to the body or the mind being overwhelmed by a substantial event. Psychological trauma, in particular, occurs when a distressing event causes the sufferer to question their beliefs and destroy their assumptions of trust. Those who have experiences traumas may feel disconnected socially, and isolated – as well as afraid and vulnerable.

Psychological trauma is the mind’s way of reacting to an event, and the symptoms may take months or years to surface – meaning that it can be hard to pinpoint the cause of trauma. Psychological trauma also affects each person in different ways.

Regardless of the source of the trauma, there are three common elements which occur:

1. The trauma was unexpected.
2. The person was unprepared.
3. The person could not have done anything to prevent it from happening.

No matter how large or how recent your trauma was, you may benefit from professional help from a counsellor to work past the trauma. It is important not to compare yourself to other people, especially because each person deals with trauma in their own way.

By getting help as soon as possible, you give yourself the best chance to fully overcome your trauma. If you are experiencing psychological trauma, don’t hesitate to seek help. Especially if you suffer from any of these conditions as a result of your trauma:

• Inability to function day-to-day;
• Inability to form relationships;
• Self-medicating with drugs or alcohol;
• Severe flashbacks;
• Feeling of being emotionally numb;
• Experiencing anxiety about the trauma.

The type of treatment you receive for your trauma will depend on a number of factors, and the key is finding a treatment that works well for you. Generally, a treatment will include acknowledging and processing through trauma-related memories, while releasing any pent up energy, and regulating emotions.

If you feel you are experiencing psychological trauma, seek help with a counsellor today.