Clayfield Counselling Services

Newsletter Archive

February 2011

With all of the major weather events we have witnessed in the last few months, our prayers and thoughts go out to the families of lost loved ones. Our last newsletter focussed on the stages of grief that people who have been through a major trauma go through, this month our focus will be on the symptoms of a psychological trauma. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, counselling is a way to address your issues in a safe and unbiased environment. For some, a few sessions can be beneficial, as you may simply require information on coping strategies or you may just need someone to talk through a problem with.

The following list is some of the possible symptoms of what a person who has been through a traumatic event may be exhibiting;

Physical

• Excessive alertness, on the look-out for signs of danger
• Easily startled
• Fatigue/exhaustion
• Disturbed sleep
• General aches and pains

Cognitive (thinking)

• Intrusive thoughts and memories of the event
• Visual images of the event
• NightmaresPoor concentration and memory
• Disorientation
• Confusion

Behavioural

• Avoidance of places or activities that are reminders of the event
• Social withdrawal and isolation
• Loss of interest in normal activities

Emotional

• Fear
• Numbness and detachment
• Depression
• Guilt
• Anger and irritability
• Anxiety and panic

These symptoms are a normal reaction to a trauma, for some they may only have these symptoms for a short time, however for others who experience severe reactions for a longer period of time, it is important to talk to someone in order to process your thoughts and feelings. There will be many people who will need to put on a brave face and push back their overwhelming feelings. It is important for these people to acknowledge what has happened.

Thought of the Month

When written in Chinese the word “crisis” is composed of two characters – one represents danger and the other represents opportunity. ~ John F. Kennedy