When you think about undergoing a medical procedure, you may be nervous about the outcome. Typically, you prepare to be discharged with some soreness, maybe a cast or a few stitches but not many think about the possibility of leaving with medical trauma. Medical trauma is defined as a set of psychological and physiological responses to pain, injury, serious illness, medical procedures and frightening treatment experiences. Some signs you are having a response to medical trauma include constantly reliving the details of the trauma in your head and avoiding places or people that can remind you of the event. Approximately a third of adults who experience medical trauma also exhibit symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
But what happens when the medical trauma you endured was due to prejudice? In the medical field, prejudice can manifest when medical decisions are made based on inaccurate or faulty information and assumptions. There are numerous legal and ethical practices that are established to prevent discrimination against sex, race, sexual orientation, and many other differentiating factors but unfortunately, no one is immune from prejudice. Prejudice-related events can cause significant stress on the victim, especially when they interfere with someone’s medical care. Severe mistrust for any type of medical provider can quickly develop and deter an individual from seeking medical help in the future, posing a great risk to both their mental and physical health.
Healing from Medical Trauma
The healing process differs from person to person depending on how well they are able to cope with their traumatic experiences and symptoms. Everyone moves according to their own timeline and you should always treat yourself with kindness and patience during your healing journey.
Here are some ways you can begin to heal after suffering from medical trauma:
Talk About It
The first step to healing from medical trauma is talking about it. Whether you prefer to talk to a professional counselor or someone you trust, talking through your trauma can help you to understand your feelings surrounding the incident better, lessen the worries or anxiety you may be experiencing, or even help desensitize you from the traumatic event.
Increase Social Supports and Coping Skills
There is power in numbers so being able to identify and rely on social supports such as friends and family during hard times can lessen the amount of stress you may be experiencing. Coping skills such as deep breathing and other relaxation techniques are helpful in regulating emotions in times of crisis.
Seek Counseling
If your symptoms are significantly impacting different aspects of your life or if you feel as though you are unable to process by yourself, seek help from a mental health professional. Counseling creates a safe space for individuals to work through their trauma and even improve their quality of life.
