What is Psychological Trauma? How Does It Heal?
Dr. Gabor Maté's definition of trauma emphasizes that trauma is not about the events that happen to us, but rather the profound effects these events create within our inner world. Maté defines trauma as "a psychic wound that leaves a mark," noting that this wound leaves lasting imprints on the nervous system, the body, and the psyche (Maté, 2003). These imprints can manifest in various ways later in life and affect an individual's daily functioning.
Individual Differences and Reactions to Trauma
Traumatic experiences can have different effects on individuals. For example, two people who experience the same earthquake and suffer similar losses may react differently to the trauma; one might remain under the trauma's effects for a long time, while the other may gradually alleviate these effects and continue with their life. This demonstrates that trauma can lead to different outcomes depending on individual awareness and coping mechanisms (van der Kolk, 2015).
Sources of Traumatic Experiences
Traumatic experiences often begin with events such as neglect, abuse, and domestic violence during childhood. Such experiences can lead to permanent changes in brain chemistry and physiology. In later years, events like threats of death, serious injuries, or sexual violence can also create traumatic effects. Examples of such traumatic experiences include abuse, rape, torture, natural disasters, and traffic accidents (Perry, 2006).
Treatment of Trauma: EMDR Therapy
Proper recognition, understanding, and treatment of trauma are crucial for the healing process. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy is an effective method used to treat the emotional wounds caused by trauma. This therapy works by reprocessing traumatic memories, alleviating emotional and mental blockages. EMDR has been shown to be effective in many cases, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, panic attacks, and phobias, although its effectiveness can vary from person to person (Shapiro, 2017).
Conclusion: Effects of Trauma and the Healing Process
The imprints left by trauma can have profound effects on individuals, but with appropriate treatment methods, these wounds can heal over time. Therapeutic methods like EMDR play a significant role in reducing symptoms caused by traumatic experiences and helping individuals continue with their lives.
References:
- Maté, G. (2003). *When the Body Says No: The Cost of Hidden Stress*. Alfred A. Knopf Canada.
- Perry, B. D. (2006). *The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog: And Other Stories from a Child Psychiatrist's Notebook*. Basic Books.
- van der Kolk, B. A. (2015). *The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma*. Penguin Books.
- Shapiro, F. (2017). *Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy: Basic Principles, Protocols, and Procedures*. Guilford Press.
