After experiencing trauma, such as divorce, you may feel like your world has been turned upside down and nothing makes sense anymore. You may feel as though you no longer know who you are or what to expect from life in the future, which can make it difficult to make plans and maintain your regular daily routines. If this sounds like how you feel, then the best thing you can do is reach out to an expert in trauma, such as a psychologist or licensed clinical social worker in your area. Ask a Psychologist: Am I Traumatised?
The best way to know whether you're experiencing post-divorce trauma is by considering your self-perception. Do you feel that your life is out of control and chaotic, even if it looks fine on paper?
Are you struggling to feel excited about anything anymore? There are different types of trauma; both divorce and PTSD can leave people feeling disconnected from reality and everything in their lives.
PTSD is diagnosed when an individual experiences some combination of flashbacks, nightmares, intense anxiety and/or uncontrollable thoughts about their trauma;
Avoidance of situations or people that cause reminders of the traumatic event; increased anger or irritability; difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
If these symptoms last for more than one month, you may have PTSD. It's essential to keep in mind that not all individuals who experience trauma will develop PTSD.
Psychological trauma is an emotional injury caused by a deeply distressing event. It can be short-lived, such as from witnessing a natural disaster, or long-lasting.
Such as being sexually abused by your mother's boyfriend at age seven.
The emotional aftermath of traumatic events can last for months or even years. Unfortunately, there is no clinical test available to determine this.
If you are psychologically traumatised, it depends on what happened and how you responded to it.
Divorce can be traumatic, especially when children are involved, if you believe that your marriage's dissolution was so tricky that it has triggered adverse effects on your life.
You may be experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
If so, you may benefit from working with a psychologist to help you overcome these symptoms and move forward with your life.
Asking yourself whether or not divorce trauma has negatively affected your well-being can be an essential first step towards recovery.
See also: 10 Ways to Start Living Again After Divorce.
Divorce can be an emotionally trying time for everyone involved, especially kids. It's natural for children to feel confused, upset and even guilty after their parents break up.
The good news is that kids are often resilient and adjust well over time.
But there's no question it helps to have some perspective on what your child might be feeling in those first days and weeks of divorce.
Here are tips from psychologists on how you can help your kids cope with divorce.
There are several factors to consider when you're wondering if you've experienced trauma. It's important to remember that experiencing trauma doesn't make you damaged goods—it makes you human. Suppose you answer yes to any of these questions. It may be beneficial for you to consult with a licensed professional. Don't hesitate to ask friends and family for their advice, as well!
