The simplest definition of trauma is when one experiences tragic situations which is more than the mind can contain.

Trauma can occur whenever an individual has experienced great stress beyond a person’s understanding of what is expected or usually experienced.

Trauma is caused by several incidents. These incidents include:

• War
• Natural disasters
• Accidents
• Medical procedures
• Spiritual Abuse
• Ritual Abuse

A person who has experienced repeated and possibly severe trauma over a long period of time, especially during childhood, has an increased risk of developing co-occurring disorders during adulthood due to the trauma experienced. Not everyone who experiences trauma will develop co-occurring disorders but the percentage of developing one or more of the following disorders is raised:

• Anxiety disorders
• Alcoholism
• Substance abuse disorders
• Depressive disorders

When an individual has experienced trauma, whether as a child or as an adult, healing can take place. Overcoming the situations which caused the trauma can be difficult and challenging. With the support of a caring therapist, healing can be achievable.