Psychic traumas are one of the most complex and difficult phenomena to address within the field of psychology. These painful and disturbing experiences can have a profound impact on a person's life, affecting their mental, emotional and physical health. In this article, we will explore the concept of psychic traumas, some realities about their nature and how they are often surrounded by myths that can make their understanding and treatment difficult.
What are psychic traumas?
Psychic traumas are extremely stressful events that overwhelm a person's ability to cope effectively. These experiences may include, but are not limited to, physical, emotional or sexual abuse, natural disasters, violence, loss of a loved one, serious accidents or war situations. What distinguishes a psychic trauma is the intensity of the emotional impact it has on the person and the inability to process and overcome the experience in a healthy way.
Realities about psychic traumas
Psychological trauma can have lasting effects on a person's life if not properly addressed. Some of the realities about psychological trauma include:
1. Impact on mental and emotional health
Psychological trauma can trigger a series of mental and emotional health problems, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, eating disorders, mood disorders. personality and suicidal tendencies. These conditions can significantly interfere with the daily life of the affected person and require professional intervention for management.
2. Individual Responses
Each person responds uniquely to psychic trauma, and there is no universally "correct" way to experience or process a traumatic event. Some people may have immediate symptoms, while others may develop delayed responses. Likewise, the duration and intensity of the traumatic response can vary widely from person to person.
3. Impact on interpersonal relationships
Psychic traumas can significantly affect a person's interpersonal relationships. Individuals who have experienced trauma may often have difficulty establishing and maintaining healthy relationships, trusting others, or managing conflict effectively. This can lead to social and emotional isolation, which contributes to further deterioration in mental health.
4. Recovery processes
Recovering from psychological trauma can be a long and complex process that requires support, understanding and patience. There is no specific time frame for recovery and it is important that the affected person has access to appropriate care and specialized treatment to facilitate their healing process.
Myths about psychological trauma
Despite the growing awareness of psychic trauma, there are still some myths and misunderstandings surrounding this phenomenon. These myths can contribute to the stigmatization of people who have experienced trauma and hinder their ability to seek help and support. Some of the common myths about psychological trauma include:
1. "People can get over trauma by simply forgetting it"
One of the most damaging myths about psychological trauma is the idea that people can get over trauma by simply forgetting it or burying it in the past. In reality, unresolved traumas tend to manifest in various ways over time, affecting a person's mental and emotional health in complex and often unpredictable ways.
2. "If a person does not show visible signs of trauma, then they are not really affected"
Another common myth is the belief that if a person does not show visible signs of trauma, such as crying or irritability, then is not really affected by the traumatic experience. However, many people who have experienced psychological trauma may internalize their suffering and present more subtle symptoms, such as changes in behavior, difficulties concentrating or sleep problems.
3. "Psychic traumas only affect weak or vulnerable people"
This myth perpetuates the misconception that only weak or vulnerable people can be affected by psychic trauma. In reality, anyone, regardless of their emotional strength, can be impacted by a traumatic event. Individual resilience plays an important role in the ability to cope with trauma, but no one is immune to its effects.
4. "Talking about trauma only makes things worse"
Some people may mistakenly believe that talking about trauma only makes things worse and that it is better to leave the past behind. However, evidence suggests otherwise: expressing and processing thoughts and feelings related to trauma may be critical to healing and recovery. Silence and denial can perpetuate emotional suffering and hinder the recovery process.
5. "Psychic traumas are rare or uncommon"
Psychic traumas are more common than is usually thought and can occur at any time in a person's life. From single traumatic events to chronic, repetitive trauma, painful experiences can have a significant impact on the mental and emotional health of those affected. It is essential to recognize the prevalence of psychic trauma and work towards greater awareness and understanding of its effects.
Conclusions
In summary, psychic traumas are deeply impactful experiences that can have consequences significant in the lives of the people who experience them. It is essential to address these traumas with sensitivity, understanding and respect, avoiding falling into myths and misunderstandings that can perpetuate the suffering of those who suffer from them. Education, awareness and access to support resources are key aspects of helping people recover from psychological trauma and rebuild their lives in healthy and meaningful ways.