How Trauma and Anxiety Interact With One Another and What You Can Do

Those who have experienced trauma might also experience anxiety symptoms in different ways.

The trauma and impacts of the trauma on the individual change the ways in which anxiety shows up. Anxiety induced by a traumatic experience can range from symptoms of PTSD, avoidance of places or people, and panic attacks. This article explores more into symptoms and what may help heal from anxiety as a result of trauma. Please note that this article is not a replacement for therapy services. If you or a loved one experiences anxiety after a trauma you can reach out to us to see if we might be a good fit for you for therapy services in Charlotte, NC. 

1.) Post- Traumatic Stress Disorder, persistent and continuous anxiety as a result of a traumatic experience: 

PTSD can create a series of different anxiety symptoms. Some symptoms include recurrent nightmares, flashbacks, and avoidance of people, places, or things as a result of the trauma. PTSD isn't exclusive to these symptoms mentioned above but PTSD could describe why these symptoms occur. The reasons why PTSD develops is due to instincts to help an individual better survive a future experience. The problem with PTSD is that the instincts used to keep the individual safe actually also hinder the individual who experiences it from being able to live a normal life. The persistence of the nervous system trying to protect the individual can create symptoms of decreased ability to sleep, inability to concentrate, and irritability. It may also be difficult to maintain stable relationships with others as a result of symptoms. 

2.) Panic Attacks 

Panic attack symptoms include;

• Racing heartbeat

• Sweating

• Chills

• Difficulties in breathing including shallow breathing

• Dizziness

Panic attacks may feel like they can come out of nowhere for people who experience them; however, the attacks can be brought on by sounds, smells, or other sensational stimuli that are present around an individual. Like PTSD, panic can be brought on as an attempt for our body to protect itself from danger. Panic attacks are meant to alert us to a potential danger to ensure survival. Our fight, flight, and freeze response is activated that creates panic. 

What can help to heal from anxiety induced by trauma?

1.) Talk Therapy 

Being able to talk with a mental health professional who is trauma-informed can help to process experiences and formulate a treatment plan with you to meet the goals that you have for symptom relief from your trauma. Compassion-focused approaches can help individuals also attune to their own needs without prescribing judgment to those needs. EMDR is also a great approach that is used specifically to help individuals with their trauma experiences. 

2.) Body Oriented approaches 

Engaging in activities that stimulate a release of stored energy is helpful. Some activities that are helpful in promoting this may include dance, yoga, swimming, and other sports activities. When we start engaging in activities that help with the brain-body connection we are able to develop more awareness and sense of control over our symptoms. 

3.) Accepting help and support 

In our ability to continue to learn and heal from trauma, it is also important to accept support from others. The more isolated that we feel from our experiences the harder it is to heal from them. We may feel like a burden or appear weak by asking for help but in reality, it is the opposite. You are not alone in your experience and your story and it is brave to start to reach for help and support. If you are ready to start your healing journey here at Inward Counseling we would be happy to hear from you.

Begin Working With A Trauma Therapist in Charlotte, NC

You don’t have to struggle with the effects of trauma and anxiety alone. Our team of caring therapists would be happy to offer support in addressing your symptoms and living life to the fullest. You can start your therapy journey with Inward Counseling by following these simple steps:

1. Fill out our contact form

2. Meet with a caring therapist

3. Start receiving the support you deserve!

Other Services Offered With Inward Counseling

Trauma therapy isn’t the only service our team offers. We know that you may experience more than one mental health concern at a time. This is why we are happy to also offer therapy for depression, family, Christian counseling, and EMDR. We also offer anxiety therapy and couples counseling. Visit our blog or about page to learn more today.