Are you struggling with the flashbacks, hyper-vigilance, and emotional exhaustion of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)? Well, you don't have to suffer in silence.
Clem and Margaret Turner are highly experienced therapists (qualified since 2004) based in Retford, Nottinghamshire. As such we're dedicated to helping people successfully process and release the emotional impact of trauma. With our techniques you can reclaim your life.
We understand that PTSD is a natural but extreme response to an overwhelming event. Our techniques gently guide your mind to safely process un-processed information. Thus you can then remember the event without reliving the pain.
Understanding How Trauma Affects the Mind
The Problem: Processing Breakdown
Normally, when we sleep (specifically during REM/Rapid Eye Movement sleep), the brain processes the information from our experiences.
When a trauma occurs, the brain is bombarded with too much information. This can often disrupt sleep and prevent this vital processing step. This prevents the memory from being linked to a resolution.
Two Memory Systems
We have two primary memory states related to trauma:
- Hypermnesia (Processed): The information has been processed. You can recall the traumatic situation without re-living the original intense emotion.
- Revivification (Unprocessed): The information has not been processed. When you remember the trauma, you re-live all the intense emotions you experienced at the time.
The PTSD Trigger
Because the memory is unprocessed (Revivification), any reminder (a trigger) instantly brings back the emotion just as strongly as if you were re-experiencing the trauma right now, causing PTSD.
Example: A soldier traumatised by gunshots might find that the sound of a car backfiring or a firework brings back the exact fear and panic experienced on the battlefield, resulting in severe anxiety.
