Retraumatisation
What is retraumatisation?
Retraumatisation is when someone relives the stress reactions they have previously been subjected to as a result of a traumatic event when confronted with a new, related event. It can feel as intense as when the first occasion occurred.
As time goes on, many people do not realise that the stress they are experiencing is the result of the trauma they were subjected to earlier in life. It happens because a current experience is subconsciously associated with the original trauma, which unlocks past reactions and memories of the event, leading to distress and feelings of dread.
It is not a sign of failure or the healing process not working. It is understandable to feel frustrated years after the traumatic event has occurred, as it may feel as though ‘it should be over by now’.
Understanding what ‘re-traumatisation’ is, and how to help keep yourself safe – is helpful.
With huge thanks to GINA project (sister organisation of RSVP Birmingham) for giving us permission to upload the following document on CIS’ters website.