Trauma is defined as the emotional response to a distressing or life-threatening event. Just about everyone will experience trauma at some point in their lives. Some examples of traumatic events include traffic accidents, natural disasters, physical or sexual abuse, military combat, life-threatening illness, and the sudden loss of a loved one. People have different reactions to trauma, and while most will experience emotional symptoms such as denial, fear, and sadness, the shock of dealing with an incredibly stressful event can also have a profound impact on your physical wellness.
At Blair Wellness Group, we offer comprehensive psychological treatment and trauma therapy in a confidential and supportive environment. The lingering effects of trauma can last for weeks, months, and even years, and it can manifest into a variety of mental and physical problems. Trauma therapy can help you process what you’ve experienced and show you how to cope with what you’re going through so you can start down the path toward healing.
If you or someone you know is struggling to come to terms with past trauma, please contact Blair Wellness Group at 310.999.4996 to schedule an appointment.
How Thoughts and Emotions Affect Physical Health
Our minds and bodies have a complex relationship. It’s long been known that our thoughts and feelings can have both a positive and negative effect on our biological functioning. This is apparent for those who struggle to cope with trauma. While most people are familiar with the psychological impact of trauma, there are physical consequences as well. That’s because the hormones and neurotransmitters associated with our thoughts and emotions can influence how our bodies function — and as a result create unwanted physical symptoms. Even if you are no longer in imminent danger, lingering stress, as well as changes in brain function, can lead to symptoms such as:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Chest pain
- Weakened immune system
- Chronic aches and pains
- High Blood Pressure
- Increase in blood sugar
- Digestive issues
- Heart palpitations
- Slower healing time
Maladaptive Coping Mechanisms and Physical Health
Some people who have experienced trauma will turn to unhealthy behaviors to cope with the psychological impact of what they have endured. These behaviors provide a temporary escape from the lingering feelings of fear and anxiety, but over time, maladaptive behaviors such as stress eating or excessive drug or alcohol use can contribute to additional physical health problems.
Trauma Therapy in Beverly Hills
Trauma therapy is beneficial for helping patients to learn effective and healthy mechanisms for coping with their feelings. Cognitive restructuring, for example, is one technique used to replace negative thoughts with more positive ones. Another form of trauma therapy involves facing your innermost thoughts and fears so that you can process them and move on. While many people often prefer to avoid or ignore difficult emotions, it is only through recognizing them that you will be able to build resilience and find true healing.
If you’re looking for trauma therapy in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, West Hollywood, or the surrounding area, please call Blair Wellness Group to schedule an appointment.
