When to Seek Mental Health Treatment in Scottsdale for Trauma - Signs and Next Steps

Statistics show that 70% of all adults in the U.S. have experienced some trauma at least once in their lives.[1] A traumatic event can include physical or sexual assault, a natural disaster, witnessing violence, combat experience, and many other life-altering events. If trauma is not addressed and treated, it can lead to years of mental health issues and other health problems. Several warning signs indicate a person needs trauma therapy. As we explore these signs, we will also look at how you can seek mental health treatment in Scottsdale at Healing Foundations Center.

What is Trauma Treatment?

Trauma treatment is a type of therapy that helps people deal with the emotional response a traumatic event causes.[2] Treatment can include a variety of methods, such as:

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

EMDR focuses on reconnecting the patient to their emotions, thoughts, and feelings that are associated with trauma in a safe and neutral environment. By providing stimulation in a secure environment, a person can experience the trauma again, allowing the brain to heal properly.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

This form of therapy can help address unhealthy behavior patterns that stem from trauma. People can learn how to identify negative thinking and respond healthily through cognitive behavioral therapy.

Other types of trauma treatment include cognitive processing therapy, which involves challenging your perspective about why the traumatic event happened and the beliefs you’ve developed because of it. Since many different trauma treatments are available, your healthcare provider can help develop a plan that includes different types of therapies to best suit your needs.

Signs You Need Mental Health Treatment for Trauma

Many people who experience trauma may be in denial that they need treatment or may be too afraid to admit they need help. In either case, several red flags indicate mental health treatment for trauma is necessary and can be beneficial.

Difficulty Functioning

If you have experienced trauma and find it difficult to get out of bed in the morning to perform your daily responsibilities, you may need trauma treatment. People who have experienced trauma can find it challenging to do everyday tasks like eating, bathing, and going to work or school.

Persistent Distress

While it is common to feel depressed or anxious after experiencing a traumatic event, any persistent depression or feelings of anxiety can be red flags that some type of trauma treatment is needed. Depression and anxiety can make it difficult to perform everyday functions, as listed above.

Flashbacks or Nightmares

Recurrent nightmares or flashbacks related to the experienced trauma can make it difficult to sleep and function. This is especially true in people who experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). People suffering from PTSD, especially war-related trauma, may not only experience flashbacks but also may experience triggers, such as loud noises, that cause them to relive their traumas.

Trust Issues or Relationship Issues

Those who have experienced trauma, especially abuse, may have difficulty trusting others or forming relationships. If they have been hurt physically, emotionally, or mentally, it can be hard to have meaningful relationships. Trauma treatment can help patients overcome these roadblocks so that they can learn to trust again.

Loss of Interest

Experiencing a loss of interest in hobbies you used to enjoy can be a sign that trauma treatment is needed. Also, if you have no interest in socializing with others and seem to withdraw and want to be alone all of the time,  you may benefit from trauma treatment.[3]

Physical Symptoms

Excessive headaches or digestive issues can also be a result of trauma. These symptoms can benefit from the right treatment to help you feel physically and mentally better.

Difficulty Focusing

People who have experienced trauma can have trouble concentrating on tasks. Their minds may be focused on the trauma they have witnessed or experienced, making it difficult to concentrate on anything else.

How to Find Trauma Treatment

Realizing you need help is the most important step in the process. When you are ready to seek trauma treatment, you can begin by talking to your primary care physician for a referral. They can often recommend therapists and treatment centers in your area that focus on helping patients deal with their traumas.

You can also ask friends and family members if you feel comfortable doing so. They may be able to offer a referral of someone who is reputable and can help with your specific trauma.

If you prefer to keep your treatment private, you can search for trauma treatment providers online to find someone who suits your needs. Support groups and community organizations can also be helpful in your search.

Remember, since everyone’s trauma is different, the type of treatment they receive will also differ. It is essential to find a treatment program that makes you feel comfortable and can help you deal with the traumatic event that has happened in your life.

Healing Foundations Center Offers Mental Health Treatment in Scottsdale

Healing Foundations Center provides mental health treatment in Scottsdale for patients who have experienced a variety of traumas. Our skilled team of professionals is here to make sure you have the proper diagnosis and receive the best treatment for your specific trauma.

Our trauma treatment includes various methods such as eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, and somatic experiencing. We provide individual trauma recovery outpatient care with both individual and small group therapy sessions. When you choose Healing Foundations Center for your trauma treatment, we will customize a plan for you. Let us show you how the right trauma treatment can improve your life.

Contact us today to learn more about how trauma treatment at Healing Foundations Center can help you.

 

Sources:

[1] https://www.thenationalcouncil.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Trauma-infographic.pdf

[2] https://www.verywellmind.com/trauma-therapy-definition-types-techniques-and-efficacy-5191413

[3] https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-addiction-connection/202211/am-i-ready-trauma-therapy