Trauma can affect our physical and emotional well-being. It results when an event causes a person to feel an overwhelming sense of vulnerability and loss of control. Some people will get through a trauma without many after-effects. However, some people will be profoundly affected.

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) occurs when a person has been exposed to a traumatic event in which:

• they have witnessed or experienced an event that involves actual or threatened serious injury or death of self or others
• their response to this event includes intense fear, helplessness, and/or horror

The following symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder will show up quickly, and will last for more than one month. Following a severe trauma, a person may experience:

• feeling numb, or in a daze
• tries not to think about the event but has intrusive memories of the trauma - images, thoughts, sensory memories
• recurrent, stressful dreams of the traumatic event
• intrusive, vivid memories of the trauma that cause a person to feel as if they are reliving the event (flashbacks)
• hypersensitivity to stimuli that remind them of the traumatic event
• avoidance of people or places that might be reminders of the trauma
• change in eating and/or sleeping habits
• increased irritability
• easily startled
• constantly checking their surroundings to make sure they are safe
• trouble focusing
• sense of loss or sadness

Recovery from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder can be a slow process. Again, it depends a lot on the persons history of trauma and their individual coping style. PTSD does not have to dominate your life. You can get help. You can get your life back.

2006 Cynthia McKenna LPC, NCC - All Rights Reserved Worldwide.

Cynthia McKenna

Cynthia McKenna MEd, MDiv, MA, LPC, NCC

Cynthia McKenna works with adults, couples and groups, helping people transform their lives. This dynamic work includes healing old wounds and identifying inner resources and strengths to face the challenges ahead. The focus of her therapeutic work and personal coaching is to help each individual develop his or her potential and have joy and peace in daily life.

Cynthia is currently a therapist at the Rape Crisis Center in San Antonio and is a trauma specialist. Cynthia has more than 10 years of experience in counseling and group work, and has led workshops and retreats throughout Texas and Oklahoma. Cynthia is available speak with your group, or lead weekend retreats focusing on: relationships, improving communication, stress management, parenting, grief, GLBT issues, spirituality, workshops for couples, and trauam.

Cynthia McKenna works with clients throughout the country via email and by phone. She also sees her clients in-person in her Texas Hill Country office. Please contact her to set up an appointment.