Trauma
Trauma refers to the psychological and emotional response to deeply distressing or life-threatening events. These may include accidents, violence, abuse, sudden loss, medical emergencies or situations where you felt unsafe or overwhelmed. Even long after the event, trauma can continue to affect how you think, feel, behave and relate to others.
Common reactions to trauma
If you recognise several of the reactions below, you may be experiencing the ongoing effects of trauma:
- Intrusive memories, nightmares or vivid flashbacks
- Avoiding thoughts, feelings, conversations, people or places connected to the event
- Feeling emotionally numb, detached or “shut down”
- Persistent worries, fear or negative beliefs about yourself or the world
- Irritability, tension, or being constantly on edge
- Sleep problems and difficulty relaxing
- Strong physical reactions when reminded of the trauma
- Withdrawal from social activities, loss of interest or difficulty connecting with others
These reactions may appear shortly after the event or develop gradually over time.
How common is trauma?
Most people will experience one or more traumatic events during their lifetime. While everyone responds differently, it is completely normal for trauma to have lasting emotional, cognitive and physical effects.
For some, these reactions gradually fade; for others, they continue to interfere with daily life, relationships, work and wellbeing.
When does trauma become overwhelming?
Trauma becomes especially challenging when it affects important areas of life, such as:
- Your ability to work, study or concentrate
- Your relationships or social life
- Your sense of safety or trust
- Your emotions, sleep and physical health
- Your daily routines or ability to enjoy activities
If your reactions feel persistent, intense or disruptive, professional support can help you understand what you’re experiencing and regain stability.
How is trauma treated?
Support begins with a thorough conversation about what you’re experiencing now, how the trauma has affected you and what you hope to change. Treatment may include:
- Trauma-focused therapy, such as:
- Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT)
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
- Stabilisation and grounding strategies to help reduce emotional overwhelm
- Psychoeducation about how trauma affects the mind and body
- Strengthening coping skills, emotional regulation, and rebuilding a sense of safety
- Collaboration with medical services, if additional support or medication is needed
At our clinic you will meet experienced psychologists who specialise in trauma-related disorders. The psychologist will guide you through the process of safely approaching what has happened, making sense of it, and reclaiming your capacity to live well.