Trauma

The impact of trauma on your life can last decades, even if you feel numb with shock initially after the traumatic event. Expert psychologist Douglas Wilson, PhD, provides psychotherapy to help you cope with your trauma at his self-named practice in Burbank, California. To learn more about trauma and how to deal with lasting symptoms, call the office of Douglas Wilson, PhD, or schedule an appointment online today. 

What is trauma?

Trauma is the lasting emotional impact of terrible events that happen in your life. Even if you don’t experience such events directly, you might get trauma from witnessing an event or even just from hearing about traumatic events in detail. 

Some common examples of events that can lead to trauma include:

• Car accidents
• Natural disasters
• Sexual or physical assaults
• Severe injuries or illnesses
• The death of a loved one
• Domestic violence
• Combat

Shortly after the event happens, you might be in shock. But the impact of trauma can last for years, decades, or even the rest of your life. 

What are some long-term signs of trauma?

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a condition that can arise from trauma in your past. It can have a massive impact on your mental and emotional well-being and can influence the decisions you make every day. 

PTSD can cause many symptoms, which vary from person to person and can evolve over time. Some symptoms associated with trauma in your past include:

• Risk-taking or self-destructive behaviors
• Sadness
• Anger
• Denial
• Avoiding reminders of the traumatic event
• Emotional outbursts
• Fatigue
• Panic attacks
• Poor concentration
• A racing heart

Some of the physical symptoms, like a racing heart or fatigue, can be just as intense as if they came from a physical health condition.  

How can I cope with my trauma?

Sometimes, medications are necessary for PTSD, depression, and other mental health disorders that can arise from trauma. Dr. Wilson can refer you to a psychiatrist when necessary, to prescribe appropriate medications. Dr. Wilson remains part of your care team, and follows up with you to ensure you experience positive results. You can visit the office for your appointments or schedule phone or video appointments if remote visits are more convenient for you. 

Call the office of Douglas Wilson, PhD, or schedule an appointment online for trauma care today.