Psychological trauma is any physical or psychological threat to an individual’s physical integrity, sense of self, safety, or physical survival. An individual may experience trauma due to sexual, emotional, or physical abuse. Exposure to severe natural disasters, the occurrence of wars, abandonment, and witnessing violence such as domestic violence can also cause trauma. It is worth noting that this is not the totality of the possible causes of trauma.
PTSD is a chronic state in which an individual’s neurophysiological responses are activated when faced with a “potential threat.” The individual will then exhibit a combination of physical symptoms that may include hyper-alertness, agitation, shortness of breath, or difficulty avoiding both physical and emotional contact with others.
The threat is a single or a set of circumstances that remind the individual of the initial traumatic experience. The individual will thus try to avoid any situation that he perceives as a threat. This behavior worsens over time as sensitivity to threats increases.
Severe psychological stress favors the production of cortisol, a hormone that increases blood sugar levels. Sugar provides the energy needed to fly or fight (a natural reaction of the body to a perceived threat, whether real or imagined). Cortisol also greatly suppresses the functioning of the endocrine system. The endocrine system is a collection of glands that produce chemicals essential for the body’s various metabolisms, such as digestion, tissue function, growth, development, and mood.
This is why people with PTSD report symptoms such as decreased motivation to have fun, increased isolation, and increased anxiety in social gatherings. Other signs that a person is suffering from PTSD include aggression, emotional irritability, and general poor health. Therefore, it is vital to engage in activities that will help you overcome the disorder. One of the main signs is the emotional and physical (over) reaction to a situation, in which the person, for example, screams and runs away because he was approached from behind.
To overcome Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, if the symptoms have persisted for more than a month, seek professional help. There are other things that can be done to help, but it is important to accept that symptoms are a natural reaction to unusual circumstances. Participating in enjoyable activities can be very beneficial, giving you a “time out.” However, these activities should not be too challenging as this will diminish your enjoyment. Learning meditation techniques like yoga can also play a vital role in relieving the condition. But never forget to get professional help if symptoms persist.
