PRIVATE CLINIC FOR TRAUMA SEQUELAE and PTBS

Shortly after a traumatic event, many people exhibit an acute stress reaction called a state of shock or crisis. In some cases, symptoms may even appear decades later. The following symptoms can often be identified after a trauma:

• Reliving the stressful situation
• Emotional rigidity and emptiness
• Despair and depressive symptoms
• Anxiety and volatility
• Irritability and aggression
• Distorted perception (dissociation)
• Hyperactivity
• Sleep and concentration disturbances
• Nightmares and flashbacks with trauma content
• Amnesia (memory disturbance)
• Avoidance of trigger situations that remind people of the traumatic event

As a result of experiencing the trauma, many people’s self-image as well as their trust in others is shaken. Many of those affected also suffer from feelings of shame and think that they themselves are to blame for what has happened to them.

There are symptoms that are considered the first warning signs of an impending burnout: Sleep disturbances or physical complaints such as headaches or digestive problems can be the first signs. They are often ignored or compensated for, e.g. with increased alcohol consumption or medication abuse, in order to remain productive. Over time, however, the exhaustion can progress more and more – until the burnout syndrome manifests itself and all areas of life are affected.

Traumatization can be triggered by different situations and experiences. They can always be traced back to a specific stressful event. It is understood to be the experience of a difficult or threatening situation to which one reacts with fear and helplessness. As a result, a shattering world and self-image can occur.

Trauma is divided into two different categories:

In category 1, a trauma is only of short duration and a one-time occurrence.

In category 2, the trauma is characterized by a longer or repeated occurrence.

Typical triggers of PTSD include:

• Wars, terrorism, escape from another country
• Sexual abuse, robbery, kidnapping
• Accidents especially traffic accidents
• Natural catastrophes such as fires, avalanches, earthquakes
• Fires, explosions
• Serious illnesses

Certain risk factors also favor its development. These include, for example, little social support from family and friends, mental illness in the family, and the duration and severity of the trauma.

Confrontation with a traumatic event can significantly affect life even after the initial shock and crisis reaction. The following disturbance patterns may occur:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Addictive disorders
• Depression
• Anxiety disorders
• Dissociative disorders
• Psychosomatic disorders