Introduction to Trauma, PTSD, cPTSD | Addiction and Mental Health Recovery Counseling Activities
youtu.be
Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes discusses trauma and its interaction with mood and addiction issues, as well as physical health issues. Trauma is defined as an experience that overwhelms one's ability to cope. Not all trauma leads to PTSD or cPTSD, but if it is not resolved, it can result in traumatic injury. People with PTSD or cPTSD often experience re-experiencing, such as flashbacks or nightmares, as well as hypervigilance. During a traumatic event, individuals may feel unsafe and disempowered, leading to a constant state of being on guard. They also tend to avoid reminders of the event, as encountering these reminders triggers their symptoms. Emotional dysregulation is another common feature of trauma, where the stress response system is frequently or constantly activated. This can lead to feeling flat most of the time, but experiencing intense emotional responses when triggered. Feelings of guilt and shame are also common among those with post-traumatic stress. Dr. Snipes emphasizes that a majority of individuals struggling with addiction, anxiety, and mental health issues have a history of unresolved trauma. It is important to consider whether one has experienced trauma and if it may be triggering their symptoms. The transcript concludes by asking the audience to identify three healthy ways of coping with re-experiencing and hypervigilance.
Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes discusses trauma and its interaction with mood and addiction issues, as well a