Consequences Of Living Traumatic Experiences (and Coping Mechanisms)
It could be considered that a traumatic event is generated after specific adverse situations, such as a car accident, natural disasters, the death or illness of a loved one; or by living intense and prolonged experiences over time, such as a period of suffering abuse, interpersonal violence, harassment, etc.
These painful experiences are much more likely to leave a negative and lasting emotional wound if the person was not prepared for this experience at the time of the incident, has been in a situation of lack of protection and vulnerability, and has had a lot of violence exerted against them. , or has not been able to defend itself adequately, This can then generate emotional blockages without managing that situation or discomfort in the correct way..
As we have mentioned, being exposed to one or more traumatic events without being able to process those situations and sensations adequately could trigger maladaptive emotions or symptoms or affective disorders, affecting the person’s well-being and quality of life.
Furthermore, in this situation, it is likely that false beliefs and negative feelings about oneself (insecurity, guilt or shame) or about the environment that surrounds us, developing difficulties when adapting and connecting in a healthy way with others.
There are certain aspects that can be risk or protective factors facing trauma, such as:
It is then that when faced with these types of difficult situations, emotions can be inhibited or suppressedwhich means that an emotional imprint can be generated in the unconscious that can affect throughout life.
Many people experience physical, emotional, and cognitive reactions at the time of the traumatic event. But If that memory or discomfort is inhibited or blocked, these symptoms will develop in the long term. leading to negative consequences, such as:
Trauma coping guidelines
The emotional wound or symptomatology that triggers the traumatic experience can accompany us for a long time, making our daily lives difficult if it is not identified in time and if measures are not taken. measures to learn to process and manage it properly.
To do this, the ideal is to take into account these coping guidelines:
Become aware that the wound exists.
Accept and validate emotions even if they are painful.
Generate self-care, self-confidence and self-understanding.
Identify possible barriers and defense mechanisms acquired to be able to correctly process the painful experience.
Identify the discomfort and where it comes from, to be able to express it and digest it without fear.
Develop new coping resources.
Enhance resilience.
If even with these guidelines you perceive that the wound or emotional discomfort is still latent and makes it difficult for you to relate and manage your emotions normally, It is recommended that you go to a professional specialized in trauma.
In psychotherapy they will be able to attend to and treat any somatization or traumatic symptoms, whether in childhood, adolescence or adulthood, so that you can develop emotionally, affectively and psychologically in a healthy and effective way.
