One of the most common experiences in life is to go through some form of traumatic event. In fact, studies have shown that up to 70% of adults in the United States experience at least one traumatic event during their lifetime. When someone goes through a traumatic event, they can develop symptoms such as anxiety, depression, flashbacks, nightmares, and problems sleeping. Trauma can also impact interpersonal relationships and lead to difficulty trusting others and forming healthy attachments. This is especially true when relational trauma intersects with wartime trauma. Wartime trauma refers to the psychological damage that results from experiencing warfare and its aftermath. It is characterized by feelings of fear, helplessness, and powerlessness. Relational trauma, on the other hand, refers to the psychological damage that results from experiencing betrayals, abuse, abandonment, or rejection in an intimate relationship.
When individuals are exposed to both forms of trauma, they may experience increased symptoms due to the overlap between them.
If someone was sexually assaulted during war, they may develop PTSD-like symptoms related to both events. This can be difficult to process because it requires navigating two different types of trauma simultaneously. The individual may feel overwhelmed and unsure how to begin healing. One way to start this journey is to seek professional help from a qualified therapist who specializes in treating trauma. A therapist will work with the individual to identify which type(s) of trauma they have experienced and create a treatment plan tailored to their needs. Treatment options include talk therapy, medication, mindfulness practices, and exposure therapy. Exposure therapy involves gradually exposing the individual to triggers associated with their traumatic experiences while providing supportive guidance. Through this process, the individual can learn how to manage their emotions and reactions more effectively.
Another important factor in processing relational trauma intertwined with wartime trauma is understanding the role of attachment styles. Attachment theory posits that humans form secure bonds early in life that shape how we interact with others throughout our lives. Individuals with insecure attachments may struggle with trust issues or avoid intimacy altogether. They may also have difficulty regulating their emotions, leading to outbursts or withdrawal in relationships. Understanding one's own attachment style can help inform treatment strategies and set realistic goals for recovery.
It is essential to remember that everyone processes trauma differently. Some people may need time before engaging in intimate relationships again after experiencing relational trauma. Others may find comfort in pursuing new relationships sooner. It is crucial not to rush into anything but rather take things slowly and listen to your body and intuition. Trust your instincts and know when something feels right for you. This is especially true if you are dealing with multiple types of trauma simultaneously. You may want to seek extra support from loved ones or join a support group for those who have experienced similar situations. Recovery from trauma takes time, patience, and persistence. Remember that you are not alone, and there is hope on the other side.
How do individuals process relational trauma when it intertwines with wartime trauma in inseparable ways?
Relational trauma is an umbrella term that encompasses various experiences of abuse, betrayal, neglect, and maltreatment within close relationships or social contexts such as family, workplace, community, school, or intimate partnerships. It can occur due to physical, verbal, sexual, economic, psychological, or even spiritual mistreatment by other people.