Traumatic events such as violence; childhood abuse and/or neglect; rapes; assaults; war; accidents; disasters, torture and predatory violence produce profound impact on the victims that may temporarily or permanently alter their biological, psychological and cognitive capacities to cope.
Traumatized individuals frequently develop Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), a disorder characterized by repeated reliving of memories, avoidance of remainders of trauma (triggers), patterns of increased hyper-vigilance, irritability, memory and concentration problems, and/or sleep disturbance.
Trauma does not only affect psychological functioning, but also increases a risk for the development of other disorders. Secondary symptoms may include alcohol abuse; eating disorders (bulimia, anorexia, compulsive eating); gambling, or compulsive spending; psychosomatic problems; homicidal, suicidal or self-mutilating behaviors; amnesia; phobias; panic attacks; anxiety; delinquent or criminal behaviors; depression or depressive symptoms; dissociation; fainting spells; sleepwalking and the possible development of medical problems such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome, auto-immune disorders and others.
The longer the individual has suffered from untreated trauma and the longer and more severe trauma, the more likely the secondary symptoms will be presented as a chief complaint rather than PTSD.
Having a history of childhood abuse and/or neglect predisposes individuals to poor-self regulation which can also minifies as additional symptoms of:
1) Feeling worthless, hopeless, profound loneliness and having distorted beliefs. Trauma profoundly alters the brain's functioning and therefore emotional, memory, thinking and physical functioning.
2) Poor impulse control (severe anger, suicidality, or risk taking).
3) Viewing oneself as damaged, shamed, or misunderstood.
4) Having difficulties in relating to others; distrust; chronic fear; revictimization, and the victimization of others.
5) Unexplained or exacerbated physical complaints.
Dr. Elizabeth Kolve
Doctor of Psychology
Marriage & Family Therapist
805-497-2555
Westlake Village, CA
