Health mental health, psychological therapy, psychological trauma, PTSD, social support, trauma causes, trauma symptoms, trauma treatment Rodolfo Teixeira 21 de June de 2024 0 Comments

Psychological Trauma: Understanding Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Psychological trauma is an emotional response to a terrible event, such as an accident, abuse, or natural disaster. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 70% of the global population will experience a traumatic event at some point in their lives. In Brazil, data from the Ministry of Health indicates that approximately 30% of people who go through traumatic situations develop some type of psychological disorder, such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Understanding psychological trauma is essential for promoting mental health and providing appropriate support to victims. The Brazilian Society of Psychology (SBP) emphasizes the importance of early identification and treatment of symptoms to prevent long-term complications. In this article, we will explore the definition, causes, symptoms, and treatments of psychological trauma, as well as discuss the importance of social and professional support.

What is Psychological Trauma?

Psychological trauma is defined as emotional damage caused by a deeply disturbing or distressing event. It can result from a single experience or repeated and prolonged events. The impact of psychological trauma varies from person to person, depending on factors such as individual resilience, social support, and the nature of the traumatic event.

According to the SBP, traumas can be classified as simple traumas, resulting from a single event, or complex traumas, stemming from repeated experiences such as continuous abuse. Common traumatic events include domestic violence, car accidents, natural disasters, and witnessing or being a victim of crimes.

Causes of Psychological Trauma

The causes of psychological trauma are diverse and can be categorized into different types of events. Among the most common are:

Accidents and Natural Disasters: Experiences such as car accidents, fires, floods, and earthquakes can leave deep marks on the victims’ mental health.
Violence and Abuse: Exposure to violence, whether physical, emotional, or sexual, is one of the main causes of psychological traumas. Data from the Ministry of Health reveals that about 60% of sexual abuse victims in Brazil are children and adolescents.
Losses and Bereavements: The loss of a loved one, especially in a sudden or violent manner, can trigger significant traumatic responses.
War and Conflict Experiences: Refugees and war veterans often present high rates of PTSD due to the extreme experiences they have faced.

Symptoms of Psychological Trauma

The symptoms of psychological trauma can be broad and vary according to the individual. Among the most common symptoms are:

Intrusions: Flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts about the traumatic event.
Avoidance: Efforts to avoid thoughts, feelings, or conversations related to the trauma, as well as avoiding places or people that remind of the event.
Cognitive and Mood Changes: Feelings of guilt, shame, despair, or loss of interest in activities that were once pleasurable.
Reactivity and Hyperarousal: Irritability, concentration difficulties, being easily startled, and sleep problems.

The SBP highlights that early identification of these symptoms is crucial for effective treatment and the prevention of more severe complications.

Treatment of Psychological Trauma

The treatment of psychological trauma generally involves psychological therapy and, in some cases, medication. Therapeutic approaches include:

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Focused on altering negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with the trauma.
Exposure Therapy: Helps patients gradually confront traumatic memories in a safe environment.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing): Uses eye movements to help process and integrate traumatic memories.

In addition to therapy, social and family support plays a vital role in recovery. Participating in support groups can provide a safe space to share experiences and coping strategies.

Conclusion

Psychological trauma is a reality that affects millions of people worldwide. Understanding its causes, recognizing the symptoms, and seeking appropriate treatment are essential steps towards recovery. Collaboration between healthcare professionals, victims, and society at large is crucial to providing the necessary support and promoting mental health.