We found that trauma impacts multiple circles of people:
- The first circle includes those directly affected—individuals who were present and suffered from the event, such as victims themselves as well as first responders like soldiers, police, doctors, firefighters, and others.
- The second circle includes those who were present but not directly harmed, yet witnessed the event.
- The third circle includes individuals whose loved ones were affected.
- The fourth circle includes people exposed to information—those who saw or heard about the event.
Most people show symptoms following exposure to trauma.
There are many symptoms that characterize a traumatic response—ranging from physical symptoms to nightmares, sleep disturbances, difficulty concentrating, intrusive images, and at times detachment, withdrawal, and emotional numbness.
In most cases, symptoms diminish over time.
Treating trauma is complex and requires a combination of techniques. However, a critical element is exposure to the traumatic event in a safe, secure environment.
When treated, trauma leaves a mark but allows the individual to gradually return to life and find ways to cope and move forward.
When untreated, trauma may develop into post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and the individual continues to suffer as if the traumatic event is happening in the present.
Participants who experienced trauma and used our program reported that it helped them feel safer, reduced negative emotions, and supported their reintegration into daily life.
Trauma does not disappear, but it is possible to learn to live with it while minimizing its impact and restoring normal functioning.
Our research identified several key factors essential for overcoming trauma:
- Developing self-control and self-efficacy
- Finding a new safe place, and discovering meaning and purpose for continued functioning
- Receiving family and social support, acceptance, and emotional containment
- Enhancing positive emotions and reducing negative ones
- Challenging and changing negative thought patterns
Healing from trauma requires acquiring new tools and skills.
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