Trauma can arise following an event that was extremely intense, threatening or overwhelming. This may have been a one-off event, but it could also be something that has been going on for some time. Examples include violence, an accident, loss, bullying, abuse or prolonged feelings of insecurity.

We refer to trauma symptoms when the experience continues to cause symptoms. Your body and mind then continue to react to what has happened.

Some people experience symptoms consistent with post-traumatic stress disorder. This is also known as PTSD.

Trauma symptoms arise from an event or period that was too intense, stressful or unsafe to process properly.

Trauma-related symptoms may, for example, be linked to:

an accident or an act of violence;
loss or a life-changing event;
long-term stress or a lack of safety;
bullying or rejection;
unpleasant experiences in childhood;
little support or security following the incident.

Not everyone experiences the same symptoms following a traumatic event. This depends, amongst other things, on what someone has been through, how long the situation lasted and how much support and safety they experience afterwards.

The development of trauma-related symptoms is not a choice and is not a sign of weakness. Even when an event took place a long time ago, symptoms may still become apparent later on.

Symptoms of trauma can manifest in various ways. For example, you may notice that:

memories, images or nightmares keep coming back;
you avoid certain places, people or situations;
you startle easily or are constantly tense;
if you are experiencing feelings of gloom, anxiety, guilt or shame;
you have trouble sleeping or concentrating;
you have less confidence in yourself or others;
Sometimes it feels as if you are back in the event. This can be very frightening.

A healthy lifestyle can help you feel more at peace and secure in your body. It is not a substitute for trauma treatment, but it can support your recovery.

Sufficient sleep, a regular routine, a healthy diet and plenty of opportunities for relaxation can help the body to recover more effectively and reduce stress. Calm breathing and exercises that help you stay focused on the here and now can also be beneficial.

Exercise can help to reduce tension in the body and bring a greater sense of calm. It can also have a positive effect on sleep, energy levels and mood.

Our lifestyle coaches to help people find healthy habits and a lifestyle that promotes greater balance, peace of mind and recovery.

There are various things you can do yourself to support your recovery.

For example, you could:

Ensuring sufficient sleep and periods of rest;
Paying attention to a regular daily routine;
Stay in touch with people with whom you feel safe and supported;
Regular exercise;
Taking time for activities that help you relax;
Practise calm breathing when you feel tense;
Using exercises that help to maintain focus on the here and now;
Seek help if your symptoms persist or worsen.

Symptoms following a traumatic event sometimes subside of their own accord. If the symptoms persist, become more severe or have a significant impact on your daily life, treatment may help.

The treatment can help with:

unpleasant memories or flashbacks;
tension and anxiety;
sleep problems;
to be startled quickly or to remain alert;
avoiding certain situations;
feelings of fear, gloom or insecurity.

Our psychologists to help you come to terms with traumatic experiences and reduce trauma-related symptoms. Together, we will look at which treatment best suits your symptoms and situation.

There are various forms of treatment that can help. For example, EMDR or trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy.

EMDR is a treatment for traumatic or distressing experiences that still cause a great deal of distress. Trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy helps people to cope differently with the thoughts, feelings and reactions caused by the trauma.

During treatment, you will learn, step by step, to deal differently with memories, thoughts and feelings associated with the trauma. Together, we will assess what you need and tailor the treatment accordingly.

Trauma-related symptoms can be very draining and affect daily life. If required, our occupational therapists supporting people with energy management, coping with triggers and finding a suitable balance between exertion and recovery, so that daily activities can be sustained more effectively.

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