Editorial - Journal of Psychology and Cognition (2021) Volume 6, Issue 8

Editorial on Traumatic Events

Sowmya Uttam

Department of Pharmacy, Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Accepted on August 17, 2021

*Correspondence to:
Sowmya Uttam
Department of Pharmacy
Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University
Hyderabad
Telangana
India
E-mail: uttamsowmya11@gmail.com

Editorial

How do people respond to traumatic events?

People have diverse reactions to terrible circumstances. People may have serious emotional reactions in the absence of visual signs. Shortly after an event, shock and denial are common reactions. To insulate yourself from the emotional consequences of the event, shock and denial are frequently used. It's possible that you'll feel numb or distant. It's possible that you won't feel the full force of the incident straight away.

It normally takes 4–6 weeks to recover from the initial shock. This is the distinction between an acute stress reaction (within four weeks of the event) and a post-traumatic reaction (typically four to six weeks afterwards). After the initial shock has worn off, your reactions to a traumatic situation may differ. The following are examples of common responses:

• Nightmares recurring memories of the event or flashbacks

• Extreme anxiety of the horrific incident reoccurring, especially around the tragedy's anniversaries (or when going back to the scene of the original event)

• Withdrawal and isolation from day-to-day activities are common symptoms of depression.

• Avoidance of all reminders of the occurrence

• Mood swings or variations in cognitive patterns

• Irritability

• Mood swings that are rapid and intense

• Nervousness and anxiety

• Anger

• Denial

• Depression is a common side effect of acute stress.

• Concentration problems

• Sleep disturbances or insomnia

• Headaches and nausea are bodily signs of stress.

• A deterioration of a pre-existing medical condition

• Following a life-threatening event, a condition known as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can develop.

People have diverse reactions to terrible circumstances. PTSD is a type of anxiety disorder that affects stress hormones and changes the body's response to stress. It often has no obvious symptoms. This disease necessitates extensive social support as well as regular therapy. Any thought or memory of the event might trigger a strong physical and emotional reaction in people with PTSD. It can continue for months or even years after a traumatic event. However, some people may experience severe emotional reactions. Shortly after an event, shock and denial are common reactions.

To insulate you from the emotional consequences of the event, shock and denial are frequently used. It's possible that you'll feel numb or distant. It's possible that you aren't aware of the situation.

Experts are baffled as to why some people develop PTSD after experiencing a horrific event while others do not. Trauma experience, as well as other physical, genetic, psychological, and social factors, may all contribute to the development of PTSD. Many experts believe that high levels of avoiding things in life, as well as continuing self-blame or shame for a personal role in the event are two major indicators that a person may develop PTSD following a traumatic occurrence.

Things that happen to you or someone close to you are considered traumatic incidents. An event can be traumatic if you saw it happens to someone else or if it happened to you while you were at work. For example, if you were the first on the scene of a catastrophic accident or a natural disaster, you may be eligible for compensation.

If you find that a friend or family member has been involved in a life-threatening situation, has been gravely injured, or has died suddenly and unexpectedly. Emotionally, traumatic occurrences are upsetting. While the majority of people will recover on their own, some people may develop mental health disorders such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, or substance abuse as a result of their ordeal.

Emotional symptoms of traumatic stress include

Shock and astonishment: You're having trouble understanding the truth of what happened, or you're feeling numb and detached from your emotions, Fear. You're afraid that it'll happen again, or that you'll lose control or collapse. Sadness or grief, especially if someone you know has died or have had life-changing events happen to them.

Helplessness: Violent crime, accidents, pandemics, and natural disasters can leave you feeling vulnerable and helpless, and they might even provoke anxiety or melancholy. Feeling guilty for living while others perished, or a sense that you could have done more to help.

Anger: You may be prone to emotional outbursts or be angry at God, governments, or those you believe are to blame. Shame, particularly for sentiments or concerns that you are unable to control.

Relief: You might be happy that the worst is past, that you weren't as seriously affected as others, or even hopeful that things would get better.

The following are physical signs and symptoms

Excessive sweating, dizziness or faintness, stomach tightening or churning

I couldn't sleep or stop pacing because my mind was racing. You might also have trouble concentrating, memory issues, or be confused. Sleeping patterns have shifted. For example, you may have sleeplessness or nightmares. Changes in sexual function, as well as unexplained aches and pains, such as headaches. Excessive use of alcohol, nicotine, or narcotics, or a loss or increase in appetite.