TRAUMA and PTSD

Are you experiencing any of the following symptoms:

o Intrusive memories
o Nightmares and flashbacks
o Decreased concentration
o Shame, self-hatred
o Hopelessness
o Panic attacks
o Low self-worth
o Emotional overwhelm
o Complicated grief
o Self-destructive behaviors
o Substance abuse, including overeating
o Startle response
o Extreme anxiety or PTSD
o Hypervigilance
o Chronic pain including headaches
o Little or no memories
o Dissociation
o Numbing
o Depression
o Loss of interest
o Irritability
o Insomnia

Most people who have experienced some form of trauma in their life will suffer from one or many of the various symptoms listed above. If these symptoms are continuing to affect you some time after the trauma has ended, then it is likely you haven’t truly resolved the emotions associated with that past disturbing event.

Most people will experience some form of trauma in their lifetime. Whether it is from the shock of an unexpected accident or disaster, or from the loss of a loved one, the grief often exceeds one’s ability to cope with and integrate the experience. Unfortunately for some people, deeper levels of trauma such as physical, emotional or sexual abuse, can often continue to have deep-rooted and long-lasting impacts. Often people who have unresolved emotions associated with a trauma continue to experience persistent psychological distress ranging from mild anxiety to severe depression and debilitating panic attacks.So, unless the underlying cause of those emotions is addressed, the unresolved negative experience can often continue to cause emotional problems in daily living and lead to anxiety disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).Those who suffer from PTSD often avoid certain situations and experience intense feelings of powerlessness, hopelessness and anxiety. Their emotions begin to control their behaviours and dictate what they are able and unable to do.

At Harmony Counselling Services, our methods aim to reduce or eliminate the distress and anxiety you are experiencing as a result of your traumatic experience. We will help you to understand and resolve the underlying triggers causing your stress so that you can feel calmer and more relaxed. When you understand the thinking patterns that are causing you to react in certain ways, you will naturally feel more confident and in control in stressful situations. Our aim is to increase your sense of positivity, well-being, and enthusiasm for life.