One of the questions I hear often is, how do I know I need to work on healing my trauma?
At some point in life, everyone faces potentially traumatic events, which unfortunately are an unavoidable aspect of life. Such events may result in trauma, and if not properly dealt with, this trauma remains unresolved. Unresolved trauma typically has long-lasting effects, causing individuals to disconnect from the experience, which may seem logical initially but can complicate the recovery process.
The consequences of unresolved trauma can manifest in various ways, including the development of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), an anxiety disorder. Therefore, if you find yourself dealing with chronic anxiety, it is beneficial to consider unresolved trauma as a potential underlying cause.
General Signs of Unresolved Trauma
The aforementioned dissociation
Nightmares, flashbacks, and intrusive thoughts
Addictions and/or disordered eating
Social withdrawal and self-isolation
Avoiding anything or anyone that recalls the traumatic event
Being easily startled and always on guard
Shame, guilt, and a sense of worthlessness
Sleep disturbances
Feeling numb and detached
Fits of anger
Depression
Self-harm
Suicidal thoughts
The situation may worsen if anxiety combines with any or all of the factors mentioned above. This could lead to a pervasive feeling of unease with no apparent source. Identifying the underlying cause can significantly speed up the process of recovery and healing.
5 Signs Unresolved Trauma Might Be at the Root of Your Anxiety
1. Distrust Due to Past Trauma
If you have experienced abuse or neglect, it is natural for your ability to trust others to be compromised. This lack of trust can significantly increase the stress you feel on a daily basis.
2. Challenges with Intimacy
This issue is closely linked to the first point. Building intimacy requires a foundation of trust, openness, and risk-taking. Until you address the trauma you've faced, anxiety will shape and impact your relationships.
3. Unreasonable Fears
Following a traumatic event, you might start perceiving threats everywhere. Your fight, flight, or freeze response remains heightened, making everything seem risky or dangerous. Consider the impact this has on your anxiety levels.
4. Loss of Drive
This is particularly relevant if you have a history of neglect or abandonment. You may question the point of making an effort, which stems from a lack of trust in yourself and others. Taking initiative becomes a challenge.
5. Heightened Sensitivity
While your loved ones may have good intentions, your trauma-affected mind may interpret innocent remarks or actions as attacks. This sensitivity, coupled with trauma-induced anger, can create a tense environment where everyone treads carefully, unsure of triggering any negative reactions.
Self-Help Suggestions For Anxiety Created by Unresolved Trauma
Practice mindfulness by finding simple ways to quiet your mind and stay present, such as through meditation. Release yourself from the negative effects of dwelling on the past or worrying about the future.
Engage in movement activities like yoga or walking as a proven technique for stress management. These activities can also be done with others, aiding in the formation of new connections.
Keep a journal to identify your emotions and the triggers behind them, providing a constructive way to address your anxiety. Monitor your symptoms for your upcoming therapy sessions (refer below).
Check out Vanessa's Workbook Journal -Embrace Your Shadow Within: Embark on a Personal Journey to Embrace and Integrate All Aspects of Yourself https://a.co/d/2bOKCiB
Reach out for support from your network of friends, family, and loved ones without hesitation. Additionally, commit to seeking help from a mental health professional.
Therapy, with its long and successful track record, is beneficial for individuals dealing with trauma and anxiety. We have assisted numerous individuals in coping with unresolved trauma and its consequences.
If the anxiety of your experience is becoming overwhelming, please read more about trauma therapy, reach out and connect. Call us for a confidential consultation for our practice of Move Through Trauma with Vanessa Murray . A safe, supportive 1-on-1 space in which students can learn emotional regulation skills through connection with the breath and increased body awareness. These classes are specially designed for people who have experienced all different types of trauma, who want to try and work some of that out on the mat. The first session is a trust-building conversation then from there, the classes are specifically planned for the student's needs using the Eight Limb Path of Yoga. The eight limbs of yoga are Yamas (external disciplines), Niyamas (internal disciplines), Asana (yoga postures), Pranayama (breath control), Pratyahara (withdrawal of the senses), Dharana (concentration), Dhyana (meditation) and Samadhi (integration).
Get your recovery process started today.
Коментарі