By: Dr. Deborah Pinkston, LPC, PhD Medical trauma is more common than we realize and individuals all around us suffer from this form of trauma. Medical trauma is the trauma that happens to an individual due to medical related events. For example, the person who has had multiple surgeries, but still hasn’t found relief and there doesn’t seem to be “light at the end of the tunnel”. Hopelessness can easily set in.
For others, medical trauma comes from the way that medical professionals have treated them. Some doctors have not listened to them, or haven’t believed there’s anything wrong. Usually patients KNOW something is wrong, and to be brushed off over and over by doctors who don’t take them seriously is devastating. They’re often sent from one specialist to another, and still can’t find answers. They’re given conflicting medical advice, leaving them in a state of frustration and confusion. They feel as if they’re trying to find their way through a maze in the dark. Their suffering is compounded-the original medical issue and the emotional suffering from being told “it’s all in your head-go see a shrink”. An undiagnosed illness or condition is extremely frustrating and depressing.
Sometimes medical procedures go terribly wrong, and the patient comes close to losing their life. This could be due to medical negligence or their own body’s reaction to a treatment or procedure, and leaves the patient feeling very vulnerable.
The thought of seeing another doctor, the sight of a hospital or ambulance, or anything medically related can trigger traumatic memories and bring on flashbacks, nightmares, panic attacks, and intense suffering.
Our counselors at Summit Family Counseling are trained to compassionately help individuals suffering from medical trauma, validating their experience and feelings, and leading them to healing.
Comments