Oct 17, 2023
The first thing that comes to mind is a physical injury caused by an external force. Every person knows from their own experience what the physical injury is. We are exposed to many of them from early childhood, including bruises, abrasions, and scratches. Some might even be serious, like fractures, dislocations, and sprains. Typically, the cause of the injury is an accident, meaning that the injury was not intended damage.
Various circumstances can cause injuries — car accidents, falls from heights, slipping, etc. There are composite, sport, professional, domestic violence, and criminal injuries, classified by severity from minor (short-term effect) to catastrophic (with adverse life-altering outcomes). Scars, chronic pain, movement restriction and organ dysfunction — our body is a “memory book” of physical traumas.
Most importantly, these traumas have psychological consequences. They can give rise to fears and phobias that manifest as profound insecurity and avoidance tendencies. They may also lead to anxiety, mood disturbances, disruptions in self-awareness, and a host of other stress-related emotional challenges. The psychological aftermath may result in a reduced quality of life and a diminished capacity to experience joy and pleasure. For certain individuals, the psychological impact of trauma eclipses the physical repercussions.
Why does this happen?
A single, universal answer is elusive due to the unique vulnerabilities of each individual. Typically, people tend to prioritize physical consequences, which are minimal in the case of minor injuries. Unfortunately, many often completely ignore the psychological consequences of trauma.
Let’s explore an example:
A couple of years ago, I was riding an electric scooter after the rain. The speed was low; however, I did not calculate my capabilities, hit the obstacle, and fell. I flew over the steering wheel and plopped down on asphalt right in front of the shopping mall.
It happened so quickly and unexpectedly that I didn’t even have time to get scared. The concerned security guard from the mall rushed to help me, but I was fine — I stood up, dusted myself off, and didn’t feel that much pain. I examined myself to ensure that nothing was broken; there were just several scratches and bruises, and my clothes were dirty and torn, but overall I was fine. I didn’t need any help and continued riding my scooter as if nothing happened. I was so-called “on adrenaline”.
Later, at home, I was processing what had happened. I remembered the scared face of the guard, for whom the fall looked probably completely different. My thoughts began to swirl around possible consequences — “I could have been injured more seriously”, “I could break my leg or arm, get brain injury”, “I could break my smartphone and watch”, etc.
Although the physical effects of the injury were completely resolved within two weeks, I am experiencing the psychological consequences of this accident up to date.
What are they?
First, I have become much more cautious and ride my scooter much less than before with less enjoyment.
Second, I have become more attentive, carefully look at the road and possible small obstacles (stones, branches, minor road defects,, and puddles), and ride at the lowest speed.
Third, I have become more anxious when my wife or daughter takes a scooter.
Lesson to learn: Trauma has consequences, which can be physical and psychological, and both need to be taken into account.
Always!
Q Medical / D.Avtonomov ©
