Traumatic events have been known to affect people's psychological wellbeing, leading to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) which is characterized by anxiety, depression, fear, panic attacks, and flashbacks among other symptoms. People who experience PTSD often find it difficult to trust others and open up about their experiences for fear of being judged, ridiculed, or rejected. This distrust can extend to their sexual partners, making them feel unsafe during sexual encounters.
People who have gone through trauma may perceive intimate moments as threatening because they are reminded of similar situations where they were vulnerable. Their perception of danger can cause intense feelings of guilt and shame that hinder them from connecting emotionally and physically with their partners. They become hypervigilant and alert to any signs of betrayal, rejection, or abandonment, even if there are none. Such negative thoughts can lead to emotional numbness, which makes them unable to enjoy sex and physical closeness. The fear of intimacy can also interfere with their ability to form healthy relationships.
When trauma survivors cannot relax in a relationship, they may become cold and distant, avoiding displays of affection and emotions. This lack of connection can strain the relationship, creating further problems. The partner may interpret this distance as rejection and respond by withdrawing, increasing the survivor's sense of isolation and loneliness.
Trauma can affect people's erotic safety by making them anxious and fearful of intimacy.
Healing is possible. Psychotherapy, support groups, and medications can help people process traumatic events and manage their symptoms. Learning self-care techniques like deep breathing, meditation, exercise, and journaling can improve mental wellbeing and make it easier for them to connect with others. Supportive therapists can provide safe spaces for open conversations about trauma and its impact on sexuality. With time and effort, people who have experienced trauma can overcome these challenges and find healthier ways to express themselves sexually and emotionally.
How does trauma influence perceptions of erotic safety?
Trauma can alter an individual's sense of trust, intimacy, and vulnerability when it comes to romantic relationships. It may lead to feelings of mistrust, fear, anxiety, and hypervigilance, making it difficult for them to form close bonds with others. Individuals who have experienced traumatic events often develop defensive mechanisms such as avoidance or numbing that hinder their ability to engage in intimate exchanges.