PTSD is a mental health disorder that can develop after an individual experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. It is important to note that not all psychological trauma will result in PTSD. PTSD is characterised by symptoms that persist long after the traumatic event has ended. These symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, intense anxiety or fear, and avoidance of trauma reminders. Individuals with PTSD may also experience hyperarousal, such as being easily startled or having difficulty sleeping.

Acute Stress Reaction, on the other hand, is a more short-term and common response to psychological trauma. It typically develops within hours or days of a traumatic event and lasts up to four weeks. Individuals with an Acute Stress Reaction may experience dissociation (feeling disconnected from your thoughts and feelings), confusion, anxiety, and numbness. However, unlike PTSD, these symptoms usually subside after a few weeks. While Acute Stress Reaction can still impact relationships, it is generally considered less severe than PTSD.

The impact of psychological trauma on relationships can be multifaceted. Individuals who have experienced trauma (especially when in the form of physical or sexual assault) may struggle to form close bonds with others or may be distrustful of those around them. They may also have difficulty with emotional regulation, leading to outbursts of anger and intense emotional reactions or disconnecting from feelings altogether. Trauma can also impact an individual’s communication ability, leading to misunderstandings and conflicts. Additionally, those who have experienced trauma may isolate themselves from others or avoid social situations, leading to feelings of loneliness and disconnection.

Psychologists can play a critical role in helping individuals overcome trauma challenges. Therapy can provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to explore their emotions and work through the effects of trauma. Psychologists use various therapeutic techniques, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), to help individuals process traumatic experiences and develop better coping strategies. They may also work with individuals to improve their communication skills, establish trust, and build more robust and more fulfilling bonds.

CBT is a type of therapy that focuses on changing negative thinking and behaviour patterns. It can be particularly useful in dealing with trauma because it addresses the negative thoughts and beliefs people may experience about themselves, others, and the world around them after a traumatic event. CBT can help you identify and challenge the fear-based and defensive thinking patterns resulting from a highly distressing experience. CBT aims to restore the balanced and realistic perceptions that can be ‘distorted’ by a traumatic event.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a unique therapy approach that uses bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, to help individuals process and integrate traumatic experiences, thereby reducing the distress associated with past traumas. During EMDR therapy, individuals are asked to focus on traumatic memories while simultaneously following the therapist’s hand movements or other visual stimuli. The exact mechanism of action for EMDR’s effectiveness is not yet fully understood. However, some theories suggest that the bilateral stimulation used in EMDR may facilitate the processing of traumatic memories by activating different parts of the brain and promoting the integration of the traumatic memory into a more adaptive memory network.

Although the human condition is one where psychological trauma is not always avoidable, the effects of distressing or life-threatening events need not lead to debilitating conditions such as PTSD. With the support of a psychologist specialising in trauma work, you can experience healing and learn to restore trust and closeness in your relationships.

Psychologists can help individuals who have experienced trauma to improve their communication by teaching them how to express their emotions healthily and constructively. When individuals are better able to express their emotions and needs, they are more likely to feel understood and validated by their partners, family members, and friends. This is often a profoundly healing experience. Effective communication can also help prevent misunderstandings and conflicts as individuals learn to listen actively and clarify their understanding of others’ perspectives. Ultimately, improved communication can provide a buffer against the adverse effects of trauma.