People who experience trauma can develop negatively influencing issues like mental health conditions as a result of these trauma experiences. Knowing more about the relationship between trauma and mental health can help a person who is looking to get help from the impacts of trauma find the right resources for them. At Yellowbrick, we understand the effects that trauma can have on emerging adults and their families. This is why we offer a trauma-informed approach to care as well as a trauma recovery program for those impacted by the debilitating effects of trauma.
Almost every person experiences a traumatic event at some point in their lives. Not everyone who experiences trauma will develop mental health issues as a result of trauma. But, people who are already at risk for developing a mental health issue may be more affected by trauma than others. Furthermore, people who already have a mental health issue, like a depressive disorder, may be even more at risk for developing further issues due to a traumatic experience. In either case, it’s important to understand that trauma and the trauma experience may look different for every person.
Some examples of traumatic experiences that can lead to ongoing mental health issues include natural disasters, losing a loved one, childhood neglect, abuse in any form, being a victim to or witness to a violent attack, vehicular accidents, etc.
There can be many different stages of trauma and the effects of trauma may be different for every person. Some people may first experience shock and may have trouble believing that the traumatic event actually happened. Other common reactions to trauma can include feelings of deep sadness, anger, despair, loneliness, and isolation from others. For some, experiencing trauma can lead to the development of mental health conditions like PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) or make symptoms of already developed mental health issues worsen.
Trauma can affect mental health in many ways leading to symptoms of:
If you are experiencing any of the above issues as a result of experiencing a traumatic event, trauma may have something to do with the impacts on your mental health. And, treatment may be effective in helping you take back your life from the impacts of trauma.
At Yellowbrick, we help young adults who are struggling with the impacts that trauma can have on mental health. The Trauma Recovery Program at Yellowbrick offers various therapies in group formats to help young adults face their trauma and share experiences with others who have experienced the impacts of trauma. These groups also allow for education on trauma and its impacts as well as provide individuals with information about healthy coping skills.
Find out more about how Yellowbrick can help young people who are struggling with the impacts of trauma on mental health by viewing all of our services on our website.
Yellowbrick collaborates with adolescents and emerging adults, ages 16-30's, their families and participating professionals toward the development and implementation of a strategic “Life Plan.” An integrative, multi-specialty consultation clarifies strengths, limitations, and risks, and defines motivations, goals and choices.
A mental health condition that’s characterized by intense shifts in mood including both manic and depressive episodes.
People living with Major Depressive Disorder, or MDD, experience episodes of depression and sadness that are debilitating to daily life.
Those living with anxiety disorders experience high levels of anxiety and stress that interfere negatively with daily life.
A mental health issue in which a person’s cognitive function is impaired, resulting in symptoms like experiencing challenges with conducting speech, reading and writing, and behavior.
Mental health disorders that negatively affect a person’s behaviors, thought patterns, and function. People diagnosed with these disorders experience challenges with managing relationships and understanding various situations.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is a mental health condition that people can develop as a result of experiencing traumatic situations, characterized by symptoms including flashbacks, avoidance behaviors, and more.
A mental health condition that is characterized by specific symptoms of forgetfulness and lack of concentration, which makes it challenging to complete necessary tasks.
Mental health conditions that interfere with a person’s eating habits, thought patterns, and behaviors in negative ways.
A mental health disorder diagnosable with the DSM-5 that is characterized by both obsessions and compulsive behaviors.