Battling PTSD, Source https://flickr.com, Author US Marines (PD as work product of federal govt.)
Retraumatization is defined as re-experiencing a past traumatic event as if it were occurring in the present [1A]. Retraumatization calls up and heightens the emotions and sensations of the original trauma we experienced. We once again feel powerless and under threat.
Sources of Retraumatization
The sources of retraumatization are innumerable, and as unique as the individual.
Potential sources, however, can include: stress; sights, sounds, or smells similar to the original traumatic event; song lyrics evocative of the original traumatic event; movies similar to the original traumatic event; news stories similar to the original traumatic event; illness or injury (with or without hospitalization); loss of a loved one, a pet, or a meaningful possession; dysfunctional relationships; and natural disasters [1B][2A].
Exposure to someone else’s trauma (whether a family member, friend, or public figure) can be likewise detrimental [2B].
Trauma-Informed Healthcare
It is imperative that healthcare professionals recognize trauma is not limited to physical injury from falls or gunshots [3A]. Negative experiences in childhood are highly prevalent. These can include not only childhood abuse, but parental mental illness or imprisonment. Continue reading
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