All too often, we experience an event or events that is traumatizing to our well-being. Being a physical survivor of abuse, combat or a natural disaster does not always mean we survive emotionally as well. We can view ourselves and our world in negative light. We may often feel like the trauma is happening right now even when this is not so. One’s depression, isolation, fear and anxiety associated with experienced trauma is likely due to the effects upon our brain functioning. Scientific evidence establishes these changes to be true.
As trauma and its effects upon a person’s resiliency and well-being are recognized, the incorporation of a trauma informed approach to treatment by the professional is now widely utilized. Recognizing and acknowledging the role of trauma in one’s life is important. To hear “What happened to you” and not “What’s wrong with you” assists with knowing that the trauma was outside your control, that you did not plan for it, you did nothing wrong. This is an approach to assist with engaging in the treatment process and entering the road to recovery learning strategies to gain success toward resuming one’s independent lifestyle.