Understanding, Assessing and Treating Trauma

Overview of trauma

Trauma refers to a deeply distressing or disturbing experience that can have lasting effects on an individual's mental and emotional wellbeing. Traumatic events can include, but are not limited to, physical or sexual abuse, exposure to natural disasters, combat, terrorism, or serious accidents. The psychological effects of trauma can be severe and can include symptoms such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or prolonged grief disorder.Individuals who have experienced trauma may also have difficulty regulating their emotions and may engage in harmful coping mechanisms, such as substance abuse or self-harm. Trauma can also have a significant impact on relationships, as individuals who have experienced trauma may have difficulty trusting others or maintaining healthy boundaries.Trauma-informed care is an approach that understands and acknowledges the impact of trauma in individuals seeking services. This approach includes a holistic understanding of the individual and their experiences, and seeks to actively address the potential triggers and re-traumatization in the therapeutic process. The main goal of trauma-informed care is to empower the individual and support their journey towards healing and resilience.As a mental health clinician, it is essential to have a thorough understanding of trauma and its effects on individuals, as well as an understanding of the importance of trauma-informed care. It is also important to be aware of the different treatment options available for individuals who have experienced trauma, including cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), prolonged exposure therapy (PE), and eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR).

What is trauma?

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR) defines trauma as "exposure to actual or threatened death, serious injury, or sexual violence." This exposure can occur through experiencing the event directly, witnessing the event, learning that the event occurred to a close family member or friend, or repeated or extreme exposure to aversive details of the event(s). This can include events such as military combat, physical or sexual assault, serious accidents, and natural disasters. The DSM-5-TR also notes that the experience of trauma can result in the development of a number of different mental health conditions, including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), acute stress disorder, and other specified or unspecified trauma- and stressor-related disorders.The DSM-5-TR recognises that some individuals may experience trauma that does not fall within the above definition; however, it will still result in significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other areas of functioning.

What are the symptoms of trauma?

Note that everyone reacts differently to trauma, and the symptoms and severity of trauma can vary greatly from person to person. Those who believe they are experiencing symptoms of trauma should seek help from a mental health professional or trauma specialist. With the right support and treatment, it is possible to overcome the effects of trauma and move forward toward a more fulfilling and healthy life.

Trauma refers to a deeply distressing or disturbing experience that can have long-lasting effects on an individual's mental and emotional wellbeing. The symptoms of trauma can vary widely, and can include both physical and psychological symptoms. Some common symptoms of trauma include:

Intrusive Thoughts

Trauma survivors may experience repeated, involuntary memories of the traumatic event, which can be distressing and disruptive to their daily lives.

Avoidance

Many individuals with trauma may avoid reminders of the traumatic event and engage in behaviours that are designed to help them avoid these reminders.

Emotional Numbness

Trauma can cause individuals to feel emotionally detached from others and from their own experiences, leading to feelings of apathy, lack of interest, and difficulty forming close relationships.

Anxiety and Fear

Trauma can result in symptoms of anxiety and fear, including panic attacks, difficulty sleeping, and constant worry or agitation.

Depression

Trauma can lead to depression, which can cause individuals to feel hopeless, helpless, and have a lack of energy or motivation.

Irritability and Anger

Trauma can also result in irritability and anger, which can manifest as mood swings, outbursts, and difficulty controlling one's temper.

Physical Symptoms

Some individuals with trauma may experience physical symptoms, such as headaches, fatigue, changes in appetite, and difficulty sleeping.

How to diagnose trauma

Trauma can be diagnosed by conducting a thorough assessment of an individual's symptoms, experiences, and medical history. There is no single test or procedure that can diagnose trauma. Instead, the clinician will rely on a combination of tools and methods to gather information.The first step in diagnosing trauma is typically a comprehensive clinical interview. During this interview, the clinician will ask the individual about their experiences and any symptoms they may be experiencing. The clinician may want to know about the individual's medical and psychiatric history, as well as any current or past treatment they may have received.The clinician may also use diagnostic criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR) as a guide to determine if an individual meets the criteria for a trauma-related disorder such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The DSM-5-TR criteria for PTSD include the following:<ul><li>Exposure to actual or threatened death, serious injury, or sexual violence</li><li>Re-experiencing symptoms, such as flashbacks or nightmares</li><li>Avoidance of reminders of the trauma</li><li>Negative alterations in mood and cognition, such as feeling guilty or having negative beliefs about oneself</li><li>Hyperarousal symptoms, such as being easily startled or having trouble sleeping</li></ul>In addition to the interview and the use of the diagnostic criteria, the clinician may use other assessment tools, such as questionnaires or self-report measures, to gather information. These tools can help the clinician to further evaluate the individual's symptoms and determine the severity of their condition.Some of the most commonly used assessments and diagnostic tools include:<ul><li>Clinician-administered diagnostic interviews: These are structured interviews conducted by a trained clinician and based on the diagnostic criteria for a specific disorder, such as PTSD. Examples of such interviews include the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS) and the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 (SCID-5).</li><li>Self-report measures: These are questionnaires or surveys that are completed by the individual and are designed to evaluate symptoms related to a specific disorder. Examples of self-report measures used to assess PTSD include the PTSD Checklist (PCL) and the Post-traumatic Diagnostic Scale (PDS).</li><li>Trauma exposure questionnaires: These questionnaires evaluate the types and frequency of traumatic events an individual has experienced, such as the Life Events Checklist for DSM-5 (LEC-5) or the Trauma History Questionnaire (THQ)</li><li>Psychological assessment tools: These tools can help to assess the individual's overall psychological wellbeing, including symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other conditions that may be related to trauma. Examples of psychological assessment tools include the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI).</li><li>Behavioural observation: The clinician may also observe the individual during the assessment, such as by noting the individual's behaviour, body language, and manner of speech, which can provide additional information to aid the assessment.</li></ul>

Note that no single assessment or diagnostic tool is considered to be definitive in the diagnosis of trauma and trauma-related disorders. The clinician will likely use a combination of tools to gather information and will consider the individual's unique experiences, symptoms, and overall mental health status before making a diagnosis.

Common treatment approaches for trauma

The treatment approach chosen will depend on the individual's specific needs and symptoms, as well as their preferences, goals, and other factors. It's quite common for clients to receive a combination of different treatments, such as therapy and medication, to address all the different dimensions of the trauma and its effects. When designing a treatment plan, the clinician must address any co-occurring conditions, such as depression or substance abuse, and also consider the cultural and personal context of the individual.

Mental health clinicians can use a range of treatment approaches to help individuals who have experienced trauma, commonly including:

Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT)

This is a type of therapy that focuses on helping individuals to understand and change their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. CBT for trauma often includes techniques such as exposure therapy, which involves gradually confronting and facing the traumatic memories and emotions, as well as cognitive restructuring, which involves learning to challenge and change negative thoughts and beliefs related to the trauma.

Prolonged Exposure therapy (PE)

This is a specific type of CBT for PTSD, which focuses on helping the individual to process and come to terms with the traumatic event. PE involves gradual exposure to the traumatic memories and feelings associated with the event through talk therapy, writing, and/or imagery exercises. The goal of PE is to help the individual to overcome their avoidance of the trauma and decrease the distress associated with the trauma-related memories and triggers.

Eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR)

This form of therapy involves the therapist guiding the individual through a set of eye movements while they focus on the traumatic memory. The theory behind EMDR is that this process can help the individual to process and integrate the traumatic memory, reducing its emotional impact.

Mindfulness-based therapies

Mindfulness-based therapies, such as mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), can help individuals develop the ability to focus their attention on the present moment and acknowledge their thoughts and feelings without judgement. This can help individuals to reduce their symptoms and improve their overall wellbeing.

Medication

Medications, such as antidepressants and antianxiety medication, can also be used to help alleviate symptoms related to trauma. These medications can be prescribed by a psychiatrist or a primary care physician.

Best practice treatment guides for trauma

Mental health clinicians can refer to numerous best practice treatment guides when treating individuals who have experienced trauma.<ul><li>The American Psychiatric Association (APA) has issued a guideline for the assessment and treatment of adults with Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This guideline is based on a comprehensive literature review and provides recommendations for the assessment and treatment of PTSD, including the use of different types of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), prolonged exposure (PE), and eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR), as well as medication management.</li><li>The International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ISTSS) has also published guidelines for the treatment of trauma-related disorders. Their guidelines include recommendations for the use of different types of therapy and medication management, as well as the importance of taking into account the individual's unique needs and experiences.</li><li>The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) in the UK has issued guidelines for the assessment and management of PTSD that are based on the latest research evidence. These guidelines provide recommendations for the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of PTSD in adults and children, including the use of different types of therapy and medication management.</li></ul>Keep in mind that these guidelines are based on current research and understanding of trauma, its effects, and its treatment. Clinicians should stay updated with the latest research (which can be a moving target) and tailor the treatment approach according to the unique needs of the individual, including their cultural and personal context.Ultimately, the treatment of trauma is an ongoing process, one customised to the person. It can take time to heal from the effects of trauma, and individuals need to understand that recovery is a gradual process that may involve setbacks and relapses.

Common comorbidities with trauma

The above conditions can occur simultaneously, exacerbating each other's symptoms. Additionally, there may be other comorbidities, such as physical health conditions, that are related to trauma. Mental health clinicians must therefore consider the potential for comorbidities when working with individuals who have experienced trauma and take a comprehensive approach to treatment that addresses the full range of symptoms and conditions.

1
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

This is a mental health disorder that can develop following exposure to a traumatic event. Individuals with PTSD may experience symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance of reminders of the trauma, and feelings of guilt or shame.
2
Depression

Trauma can lead to feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, and a loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, which are symptoms of depression. Depression and PTSD can also be related by biological mechanism, such as changes in neurocircuitry, hormone regulation, and inflammation.
3
Anxiety disorders

Trauma can lead to the development of anxiety disorders, such as generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic disorder. Individuals with anxiety disorders may experience symptoms such as excessive worrying, difficulty sleeping, and physical symptoms such as a rapid heartbeat or sweating.
4
Substance use disorders

Many people with trauma go on to develop substance use disorders. Such individuals may use alcohol or drugs as a way to cope with the distressing symptoms of trauma, which can lead to addiction and other problems related to substance use.
5
Borderline personality disorder (BPD) and complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD)

Have been also associated with trauma, and they can have a severe impact on the individual's emotional regulation, interpersonal relationships and overall mental health.

MHA courses on trauma

<ul><li><a target='_blank' href='https://www.mentalhealthacademy.com.au/credential/trauma/enrol'>Working with Trauma: Interventions That Foster Resilience (Credential)</a></li><li><a target='_blank' href='https://www.mentalhealthacademy.com.au/credential/dmhc/enrol'>Disaster Mental Health Counselling (Credential)</a></li><li><a target='_blank' href='https://www.mentalhealthacademy.com.au/catalogue/courses/dialectical-behaviour-therapy-for-ptsd'>Dialectical Behaviour Therapy for PTSD</a></li><li><a target='_blank' href='https://www.mentalhealthacademy.com.au/catalogue/courses/first-do-no-harm-the-need-for-trauma-sensitive-mindfulness'>First Do No Harm: The Need for Trauma-Sensitive Mindfulness</a></li><li><a target='_blank' href='https://www.mentalhealthacademy.com.au/catalogue/courses/The-treatment-of-trauma-and-the-internal-family-systems-model'>The Treatment of Trauma and the Internal Family Systems Model</a></li><li><a target='_blank' href='https://www.mentalhealthacademy.com.au/catalogue/courses/drawing-upon-the-bodys-intelligence-an-introduction-to-sensorimotor-psychotherapy'>Drawing upon the Body's Intelligence: An Introduction to Sensorimotor Psychotherapy</a></li><li><a target='_blank' href='https://www.mentalhealthacademy.com.au/catalogue/courses/trauma-and-addiction-taking-motivational-interviewing-to-the-next-level'>Trauma and Addiction: Taking Motivational Interviewing to the Next Level</a></li><li><a target='_blank' href='https://www.mentalhealthacademy.com.au/catalogue/courses/the-tsunami-after-suicide-finding-our-way-through-grief-and-trauma'>The Tsunami After Suicide: Finding Our Way Through Grief and Trauma</a></li><li><a target='_blank' href='https://www.mentalhealthacademy.com.au/catalogue/courses/real-men-dont-the-hidden-traumas-of-masculinity'>Real Men Don’t . . . ? The Hidden Traumas of Masculinity</a></li><li><a target='_blank' href='https://www.mentalhealthacademy.com.au/catalogue/courses/using-play-to-provide-multicultural-trauma-treatment-to-adolescents-and-kids'>Using Play to Provide Multicultural Trauma Treatment to Adolescents and Kids</a></li><li><a target='_blank' href='https://www.mentalhealthacademy.com.au/catalogue/courses/cultural-considerations-and-treatment-implications-for-working-with-military-populations'>Cultural Considerations and Treatment Implications for Working with Military Populations</a></li><li><a target='_blank' href='https://www.mentalhealthacademy.com.au/catalogue/courses/addressing-trauma-in-conquered-people'>Addressing Trauma in Conquered People</a></li><li><a target='_blank' href='https://www.mentalhealthacademy.com.au/catalogue/courses/conducting-imaginal-exposure-with-children-and-adolescents'>Conducting Imaginal Exposure with Children and Adolescents</a></li><li><a target='_blank' href='https://www.mentalhealthacademy.com.au/catalogue/courses/the-integration-of-cognitive-behaviour-therapy-and-psychodrama-in-trauma-treatment'>The Integration of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and Psychodrama in Trauma Treatment</a></li><li><a target='_blank' href='https://www.mentalhealthacademy.com.au/catalogue/courses/dialectical-behaviour-therapy-case-studies'>Dialectical Behaviour Therapy: Case Studies</a></li><li><a target='_blank' href='https://www.mentalhealthacademy.com.au/catalogue/courses/widen-the-window-of-tolerance-three-proven-ways-to-support-clients-resilience'>Widen the Window of Tolerance: Three Proven Ways to Support Clients' Resilience</a></li><li><a target='_blank' href='https://www.mentalhealthacademy.com.au/catalogue/courses/culture-centred-trauma-informed-care-for-bipoc-children-placing-culture-at-the-centre-of-mental-health-service-delivery'>Culture-centred Trauma-informed Care for BIPOC Children: Placing Culture at the Centre of Mental Health Service Delivery</a></li><li><a target='_blank' href='https://www.mentalhealthacademy.com.au/catalogue/courses/understanding-the-link-between-trauma-and-addiction'>Understanding the Link Between Trauma and Addiction</a></li></ul>

Treatment resources for trauma

The best treatment plan will vary from person to person and may involve a combination of these resources. It's essential to work with a mental health professional or trauma specialist to develop a customised treatment plan that takes into account the specific needs and preferences of the individual. With the right support and treatment, individuals can overcome the effects of trauma and achieve lasting recovery.

Trauma can have a profound impact on an individual's mental and emotional wellbeing, and effective treatment is essential for recovery. Here are some common clinical treatment resources for trauma:

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is a common treatment for trauma, with several evidence-based therapies effective in ameliorating it. Examples include Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Prolonged Exposure (PE). These therapies can help individuals process and make sense of their traumatic experiences, reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, and improve overall quality of life.

Medications

In some cases, medication may be used to treat the symptoms of trauma. Antidepressants, for example, can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, while anti-anxiety medications can help manage symptoms of panic and anxiety.

Support groups

Support groups, such as those offered by organisations like the National Centre for PTSD, can provide a supportive and non-judgmental environment for individuals who have experienced trauma. Such groups can also provide a sense of community and connexion, which can be an important aspect of recovery.

Somatic therapies

Somatic therapies, such as mindfulness-based stress reduction and yoga, can help individuals with trauma regulate their physical sensations and emotions. These therapies can also help individuals reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

Outdoor and adventure-based therapies

Outdoor and adventure-based therapies can provide individuals with a unique and challenging experience that can help them overcome their traumatic experiences. These therapies can also help individuals develop new skills, build self-confidence, and connect with nature.

Frequently asked questions about trauma

What are the most recent developments in the understanding of the neurobiology of trauma?

Recent research has shown that trauma can lead to changes in certain brain regions, such as the hippocampus and amygdala, and in the release of certain neurotransmitters, such as cortisol, that may be involved in the development of trauma-related disorders. Additionally, studies on epigenetics have linked early life stressors to changes in gene expression, resulting in increased risk for later mental health problems.

What are the most effective evidence-based treatments for different types of trauma?

Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), particularly prolonged exposure therapy (PE) and eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR), have been found to be effective in treating PTSD and other trauma-related disorders. Trauma-focused CBT (TF-CBT) specifically has been found effective in treating children and adolescents. Other evidence-based treatments include somatic experiencing (SE), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)

How can trauma-informed care be integrated into clinical practice?

Trauma-informed care can be integrated into clinical practice by training clinicians to be aware of the prevalence and impact of trauma and by adopting a trauma-informed approach when interacting with patients. This includes creating a safe environment, using non-pathologizing language, building a therapeutic alliance, addressing any potential triggers, and allowing the patient to be in control of the treatment process.

What are the different types of comorbidities that are commonly associated with trauma and how can they be effectively treated?

Common comorbidities with trauma are depression, anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, borderline personality disorder, and complex post-traumatic stress disorder. These comorbidities can be treated using a combination of talk therapy, medication management, and other evidence-based treatment methods.

How can cultural and personal factors be taken into account when developing treatment plans for individuals who have experienced trauma?

It's important to consider cultural and personal factors when developing treatment plans for individuals who have experienced trauma by understanding the patient's cultural background, beliefs, and practices. This may involve understanding the role of family, spirituality, and community in the patient's healing process and incorporating that into the treatment plan.

What are the most effective strategies for addressing resistance or lack of engagement from patients in trauma treatment?

Effective strategies include building a therapeutic alliance, providing psychoeducation about the treatment process, offering different treatment options, addressing any potential barriers to treatment (such as lack of transport or childcare), and being sensitive to the individual's unique experiences and needs. Clinicians need to understand that some individuals may be reticent or hesitant to engage in treatment due to fear or mistrust, so it can be important to proceed at the patient's own pace, and establish trust and safety over time.

How can I adapt my treatment approach for different age groups and for children and adolescents?

Clinicians need to adapt the treatment approach for different age groups and for children and adolescents, as they may have different developmental, cognitive, and emotional needs. For example, play therapy, art therapy, and sand tray therapy are common and effective therapies for children, while cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) may be more appropriate for adolescents.

How can I address potential ethical concerns related to trauma treatment, such as informed consent and confidentiality?

It's important to consider and address ethical concerns related to trauma treatment, such as obtaining informed consent and ensuring confidentiality. This may involve providing the patient with clear and accurate information about the treatment process, discussing any potential risks and benefits of treatment, and respecting the patient's right to make decisions about their own care. Also, clinicians should be aware of the potential legal implications of working with individuals who have experienced trauma, such as mandatory reporting of child abuse or domestic violence.

How can I support the self-care and resilience-building of my patients who have experienced trauma?

Supporting self-care and resilience-building of patients who have experienced trauma can involve teaching them coping skills and self-regulation techniques, helping them to set and achieve goals, and encouraging them to participate in activities they enjoy. It's also important to address any potential barriers to self-care, such as lack of resources or support from loved ones. It's also helpful to provide education about the effects of trauma on the body and mind, and help the individual to understand that healing takes time and patience.

What strategies can patients implement in their daily lives to help themselves with trauma?

Patients can implement strategies such as self-care activities like exercise, meditation, yoga and other mindfulness practices, journalling, connecting with a support group, practising relaxation techniques, and setting boundaries to reduce exposure to triggers.Also, they can be encouraged to seek professional help when needed, keep a balance in life, try to maintain a regular schedule, staying connected with loved ones and taking care of their physical and emotional wellbeing. The clinician can help patients to come up with a personalised plan and to evaluate its effectiveness over time.

How does trauma impact a patient's mood, energy levels, motivation, and relationships with others?

Trauma can affect a person's mood, causing feelings of sadness, anger, guilt, and hopelessness, as well as changes in energy levels, such as fatigue or hypervigilance. It can also affect motivation and engagement in daily activities, as well as an individual’s ability to focus and to maintain good relationships with others. Knowing this, the clinician can address these issues and help the patient find ways to improve their mood, manage their energy levels, regain motivation, and find ways to strengthen their relationships.

What potential complications impacting patient safety should a clinician be aware of?

Some potential complications that may arise include suicidal or self-harm ideation, issues with substance abuse, or difficulty managing anger or other intense emotions. Additionally, certain treatments may elicit intense reactions or emotional distress, and a clinician should be aware of how to handle those situations. Being aware of these possible complications, a clinician can take proactive steps to prevent them, intervene if they occur, and provide a safe and supportive environment for the patient to heal.

Popular books on trauma

<ul><li>Struggle Well: Thriving in the Aftermath of Trauma (2018) by Ken Falke & Josh Goldberg</li><li>Forgiving What You Can't Forget: Discover How to Move On, Make Peace with Painful Memories, and Create a Life That's Beautiful Again (2021) by Lysa TerKeurst</li><li>The Complex PTSD Workbook: A Mind-Body Approach to Regaining Emotional Control and Becoming Whole (2017) by Arielle Schwartz</li><li>The Post-Traumatic Growth Guidebook: Practical Mind-Body Tools to Heal Trauma, Foster Resilience and Awaken Your Potential (2020) by Arielle Schwartz</li><li>Whole Again: Healing Your Heart and Rediscovering Your True Self After Toxic Relationships and Emotional Abuse (2019) by Jackson MacKenzie</li><li>Behavioural Activation for PTSD: A Workbook for Men: Reduce Anxiety and Take Charge of Your Life (2018) by Lisa Campbell</li><li>The Beauty of a Darker Soul: Overcoming Trauma Through the Power of Human Connexion (2017) by Joshua Mantz</li><li>The Choice: Embrace the Possible (2018) by Edith Eva Eger</li><li>The Attachment Theory Workbook: Powerful Tools to Promote Understanding, Increase Stability, and Build Lasting Relationships (2019) by Annie Chen</li><li>What Happened to You? Conversations on Trauma, Resilience and Healing (2021) by Bruce D. Perry & Oprah Winfrey</li><li>Getting Past Your Past: Take Control of Your Life with Self-Help Techniques from EMDR Therapy (2018) by Francine Shapiro</li><li>The Body Keeps The Score: Mind, Brain and Body in the Transformation of Trauma (2015) by Bessel Van Der Kolk</li><li>No Bad Parts: Healing Trauma and Restoring Wholeness with the Internal Family Systems Model (2021) by Richard C. Schwartz</li><li>The Myth of Normal: Trauma, Illness & Healing in a Toxic Culture (2022) by Gabor Maté</li><li>Trauma: The Invisible Epidemic - How Trauma Works and How We Can Heal From It (2022) by Paul Conti</li><li>The Practical Guide for Healing Developmental Trauma: Using the NeuroAffective Relational Model to Address Adverse Childhood Experiences and Resolve Complex Trauma (2022) by Laurence Heller, Brad Kammer & Brad J. Kammer</li><li>It Didn't Start with You: How Inherited Family Trauma Shapes Who We Are and How to End the Cycle (2022) by Mark Wolynn</li></ul>

Recent research on anxiety

<ul><li>Nature Portfolio – <a target='_blank' href='https://www.nature.com/subjects/trauma'>Trauma: Latest Research and Reviews</a></li><li>Nature Portfolio – <a target='_blank' href='https://www.nature.com/subjects/post-traumatic-stress-disorder'>PTSD: Latest Research and Reviews</a></li><li>ScienceDaily – <a target='_blank' href='https://www.sciencedaily.com/news/mind_brain/ptsd/'>PTSD News</a></li><li>American Psychological Association (APA) – <a target='_blank' href='https://www.apa.org/topics/trauma'>Topics: Trauma</a></li><li>International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ISTSS) – <a target='_blank' href='https://istss.org/education-research'>Education & Research</a></li></ul>

References

<ul><li>American Psychiatric Association (APA). (2022). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR). Washington, D.C., U.S.A.: APA. ISBN 978-0-89042-576-3</li><li>Department of Veterans Affairs. (n.d.). Clinician-administered PTSD scale (CAPS-5). Retrieved February 13, 2023, from <a target='_blank' href='https://www.ptsd.va.gov/professional/assessment/adult-int/caps.asp'>https://www.ptsd.va.gov/professional/assessment/adult-int/caps.asp</a></li><li>Department of Veterans Affairs. (n.d.). Life Events Checklist for DSM-5 (LEC-5). Retrieved February 13, 2023, from <a target='_blank' href='https://www.ptsd.va.gov/professional/assessment/te-measures/life_events_checklist.asp'>https://www.ptsd.va.gov/professional/assessment/te-measures/life_events_checklist.asp</a></li><li>Department of Veterans Affairs. (n.d.). Posttraumatic Diagnostic Scale (PDS-5). Retrieved February 13, 2023, from <a target='_blank' href='https://www.ptsd.va.gov/professional/assessment/adult-sr/pds.asp'>https://www.ptsd.va.gov/professional/assessment/adult-sr/pds.asp</a></li><li>Department of Veterans Affairs. (n.d.). Structured Clinical Interview for the DSM-5 (SCID PTSD Module). Retrieved February 13, 2023, from <a target='_blank' href='https://www.ptsd.va.gov/professional/assessment/adult-int/scid-ptsd-module.asp'>https://www.ptsd.va.gov/professional/assessment/adult-int/scid-ptsd-module.asp</a></li><li>Department of Veterans Affairs. (n.d.). Trauma History Questionnaire (THQ). Retrieved February 13, 2023, from <a target='_blank' href='https://www.ptsd.va.gov/professional/assessment/te-measures/thq.asp'>https://www.ptsd.va.gov/professional/assessment/te-measures/thq.asp</a></li><li>Healthdirect. (n.d.). Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Retrieved February 13, 2023, from <a target='_blank' href='https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd'>https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd</a></li><li>Healthline. (n.d.). Traumatic Events. Retrieved February 13, 2023, from <a target='_blank' href='https://www.healthline.com/health/traumatic-events#seeking-help'>https://www.healthline.com/health/traumatic-events#seeking-help</a></li><li>International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (2023). Home. Retrieved February 13, 2023, from <a target='_blank' href='https://istss.org/home'>https://istss.org/home</a></li><li>Leonard, J. (2020). What is trauma? What to know. MedicalNewsToday. Retrieved February 13, 2023, from <a target='_blank' href='https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/trauma'>https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/trauma</a></li><li>National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (2023). Home. Retrieved February 13, 2023, from <a target='_blank' href='https://www.nice.org.uk/'>https://www.nice.org.uk/</a></li><li>Pagán, C.N. (n.d.). When You’re Emotionally Affected by Trauma. WebMD. Retrieved February 13, 2023, from <a target='_blank' href='https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/features/emotional-trauma-aftermath'>https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/features/emotional-trauma-aftermath</a></li><li>Tell, M. (2023). What Is Trauma? Verywellmind. Retrieved February 13, 2023, from <a target='_blank' href='https://www.verywellmind.com/common-symptoms-after-a-traumatic-event-2797496'>https://www.verywellmind.com/common-symptoms-after-a-traumatic-event-2797496</a></li></ul>

Understanding, Assessing and Treating Trauma

Guidelines, tools and resources for mental health clinicians

Jump to section

Overview of trauma

What is trauma?

What are the symptoms of trauma?

How to diagnose trauma

Common treatment approaches for trauma

Best practice treatment guides for trauma

Common comorbidities with trauma

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Depression

Anxiety disorders

Substance use disorders

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) and complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD)

MHA courses on trauma

Treatment resources for trauma

Frequently asked questions about trauma

Popular books on trauma

Recent research on anxiety

References