Trauma

What role does trauma play in overall health?

Trauma can originate in a number of ways, including experiencing a serious accident, environmental disaster, violent crime, domestic violence, or other highly stressful events. Some people experience one-time trauma, while others live for years in traumatic circumstances. 

Everyone reacts to trauma differently. You might respond to trauma in different ways at different times. The symptoms of trauma aren’t always easy to identify. 

Trauma can affect your overall health in many ways, including:

• Increasing stress
• Reducing resiliency
• Decreasing immune function
• Impacting the way you think or reason

The first step in getting support for trauma is understanding how it can manifest in your daily life. 

What are some signs I might be suffering the results of medical trauma?

Medical trauma develops when you experience a negative or traumatic scenario while receiving medical care. Some of the issues that can trigger medical trauma include:

• Serious illness or injury
• Invasive procedures
• Frightening treatment
• Dismissive or uncaring interactions with medical professionals
• Serious or chronic pain

Most cases of medical trauma affect the patient, but caregivers and loved ones can also develop medical trauma due to their close connection and experience of a traumatic situation. 

What are the symptoms of medical trauma?

Some of the symptoms of medical trauma include:

• Anxiety when faced with the thought of medical care
• Muscle tension
• Intense emotions
• Flashbacks
• Fearfulness
• Digestive issues
• Depression
• Sleep disruptions

If you find yourself postponing or avoiding routine health care after a negative experience, you might be suffering from medical trauma. 

How do I move beyond trauma to get the care I need to thrive?

Finding the right practitioner is essential. Carrie has extensive training in recognizing and managing medical and other forms of trauma. She understands that patients with these challenges need a different approach and often need one-on-one time to overcome trauma. 

Recognizing that you need a little extra support is also important. When you are able to pay attention to the way you react to certain thoughts or scenarios, you can make a conscious decision to get the help you need. 

If you suspect that you have symptoms of trauma, reach out to Primrose Women’s Health online or by phone to schedule a visit. Carrie is happy to work with you to find a way to support your women’s health needs.