Managing Moods After Trauma
Trauma, whether it is a head injury or a traumatic experience, can have a significant impact on our emotional and
April 23, 2023
No Comments
Stress Overview
Stress in New Zealand and Beyond
Stress is a common experience that people face in New Zealand and beyond. Stress can come from a variety of sources, such as work, relationships, health, and finances, and can impact individuals’ mental and physical health.
In New Zealand, stress is a growing concern. According to a survey by the Mental Health Foundation, almost half of all New Zealanders have experienced significant stress in the past year. The survey also found that stress is more common among young people, with 72% of those aged 18 to 24 reporting significant stress.
Stress in New Zealand is often linked to work-related issues. Long working hours, a lack of job security, and high-pressure environments can all contribute to stress among employees. In addition, financial stress is a significant issue, with many New Zealanders struggling to make ends meet and pay off debts.
However, stress is not unique to New Zealand. It is a global issue that affects people around the world. In fact, the World Health Organization has called stress the “health epidemic of the 21st century.”
Beyond New Zealand, stress is also a significant concern in many other countries. In the United States, stress is a leading cause of health problems, and it is estimated that stress-related illnesses cost the US economy billions of dollars each year.
Fortunately, there are many ways to manage and reduce stress, regardless of where you live. These include practices such as exercise, meditation, and relaxation techniques, as well as seeking support from friends, family, and mental health professionals.
In New Zealand, there are also several organisations and initiatives aimed at addressing stress and promoting mental health. For example, the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand provides resources and support for those struggling with stress and other mental health issues.
Stress Disorders
Stress disorders are a group of mental health conditions that develop as a result of exposure to one or more traumatic or stressful events. These events can include physical or sexual assault, natural disasters, accidents, combat, or witnessing violence or death. People who experience such events may develop a range of symptoms that can affect their mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
There are several types of stress disorders, the most well-known being post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
PTSD
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can occur in individuals who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event, such as a natural disaster, a serious accident, combat, or sexual or physical assault. Symptoms of PTSD can include:
- Re-experiencing the traumatic event through flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive thoughts
- Avoidance of situations or people that remind the individual of the trauma
- Negative changes in mood or cognition, such as feeling detached, negative beliefs about oneself or others, and persistent negative emotions
- Increased arousal, such as difficulty sleeping, being easily startled, or having angry outbursts
PTSD can significantly impact a person’s daily life, making it challenging to work, maintain relationships, or even carry out basic activities. Treatment for PTSD can include psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of both.
Acute Stress
Severe acute stress is a little different with far wider-reaching mental and physical health implications. This kind of stress is experienced when you have faced a life-threatening situation. This type of stress can lead to mental health problems including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Acute stress disorder (ASD) is a similar condition to PTSD but occurs within one month of the traumatic event and lasts for less than a month. Symptoms of ASD can include:
- Dissociative symptoms, such as feeling disconnected from oneself or experiencing amnesia about the traumatic event
- Intrusive thoughts or memories of the trauma
- Avoidance of stimuli related to the trauma
- Increased arousal, such as difficulty sleeping, being easily startled, or having angry outbursts
Like PTSD, treatment for ASD can include therapy, medication, or a combination of both.
Adjustment Disorder
Adjustment disorder is a stress disorder that occurs when a person experiences significant distress or impairment in response to a life stressor, such as a divorce, job loss, or illness. Symptoms of adjustment disorder can include:
- Feeling depressed or anxious
- Difficulty coping with the stressor
- Impaired social or occupational functioning
Unlike PTSD and ASD, adjustment disorder can occur in response to non-traumatic events. Treatment for adjustment disorder often involves therapy to help the individual learn coping skills and develop a plan to manage the stressor.
Adjustment disorder is another stress disorder that occurs when a person experiences a significant and unexpected life stressor, such as a divorce or job loss. Symptoms of adjustment disorder can include depression, anxiety, and difficulty coping with stressors.
Reactive Attachment Disorder
Reactive attachment disorder and disinhibited social engagement disorder are stress disorders that can occur in children who have experienced neglect or abuse in their early years. Symptoms of reactive attachment disorder can include a lack of trust in caregivers, difficulty forming relationships, and emotional detachment. Symptoms of disinhibited social engagement disorder can include seeking attention from unfamiliar adults, a lack of stranger anxiety, and approaching unfamiliar adults without hesitation.
Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder
Disinhibited social engagement disorder (DSED) is a stress disorder that affects some children who have experienced significant neglect or maltreatment in their early years, particularly those who have been in institutional care or experienced frequent caregiver changes.
DSED is characterised by a lack of appropriate social boundaries and an indiscriminate, overly trusting approach to social interactions, especially with strangers. Children with DSED often engage in behaviours that are socially inappropriate, such as approaching or hugging unfamiliar adults or showing excessive familiarity with strangers.
Symptoms of DSED may include:
- A willingness to go off with strangers, without hesitation or checking back with a trusted adult
- Lack of stranger anxiety and wariness, even when meeting unfamiliar people
- Showing overly familiar behaviours with strangers, such as sitting on their lap or hugging them
- A tendency to seek attention from unfamiliar adults, rather than caregivers
- A lack of discrimination in choosing attachment figures, such as attaching to anyone who shows them attention, rather than prioritising attachment to familiar caregivers
- Poor impulse control and boundary setting
DSED can impact a child’s social development, as they may struggle to form appropriate attachments or maintain stable relationships with caregivers and peers. Without proper treatment, DSED can lead to long-term social and emotional difficulties.
Episodic Acute Stress
Episodic acute stress is a type of stress that occurs when an individual experiences frequent episodes of acute stress, typically caused by various ongoing life situations or events. Individuals with episodic acute stress often feel overwhelmed and anxious, with a sense that they have too many demands and responsibilities and not enough resources to manage them.
Episodic acute stress is characterised by repeated episodes of acute stress, where the person experiences symptoms of stress over and over again. Some of the symptoms of episodic acute stress may include:
- Frequent headaches, chest pain, and muscle tension
- Irritability, anxiety, and mood swings
- Feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope with life’s demands
- Frequent bouts of anger, anxiety, and nervousness
- Difficulty sleeping or staying asleep
- Difficulty concentrating and making decisions
People who experience episodic acute stress may struggle to manage their stress levels effectively and may have difficulty with relationships, work, and daily life. Episodic acute stress is often associated with chronic stress, as people with this type of stress often have chronic stressors that contribute to their symptoms.
Some common causes of episodic acute stress include:
- Chronic health problems, such as diabetes or heart disease
- Chronic work stress or job burnout
- Frequent conflict in relationships or family life
- Constantly feeling rushed or overwhelmed by daily responsibilities
- Financial pressures or ongoing money problems
Chronic stress
Chronic stress is a type of stress that occurs when an individual experiences ongoing or persistent stressors over a prolonged period of time. Unlike acute stress, which is a short-term response to a specific event or situation, chronic stress is a continuous and long-lasting experience. Chronic stress can be caused by a variety of factors, including work, relationships, financial difficulties, and health problems.
Chronic stress can have negative effects on physical and mental health. Some of the physical symptoms of chronic stress include:
- Chronic fatigue and low energy
- Frequent headaches, back pain, or other physical pain
- Digestive problems, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke
- The weakened immune system, leads to frequent infections and illnesses
The mental health symptoms of chronic stress can include:
- Persistent feelings of anxiety or depression
- Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
- Difficulty concentrating and memory problems
- Irritability, mood swings, and feeling overwhelmed
- Substance abuse or addiction
Chronic stress can also contribute to the development of other mental health disorders, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety disorders, and depression.
Stress Symptoms
Stress is a normal response to various life situations and events. However, excessive and prolonged stress can lead to various physical and emotional symptoms. Stress symptoms can vary from person to person, and can range from mild to severe. Some common stress symptoms include:
Physical symptoms of stress are those that are felt in the body. These can include headaches, muscle tension, digestive issues, and rapid heartbeat. Physical stress symptoms can result from the body’s natural “fight or flight” response to stress, which can lead to the release of hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones can cause changes in the body that can result in physical symptoms. Physical symptoms can include:
- Headaches
- Chest pain or tightness
- Muscle tension or pain
- Digestive issues, such as stomach pain or nausea
- Rapid heartbeat or heart palpitations
- Fatigue or low energy
- Sweating or trembling
- Changes in appetite or weight
Emotional symptoms of stress are those that are felt in the mind or emotions. These can include feelings of anxiety, irritability, or sadness. Emotional stress symptoms can result from the impact of stress on mental health, including changes in brain chemistry and changes in mood. Emotional stress symptoms can also lead to physical symptoms, such as changes in appetite, sleep, and energy levels. Emotional symptoms can include:
- Anxiety or excessive worry
- Irritability, anger or mood swings
- Feeling overwhelmed or unable to cope
- Depression or feelings of sadness
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
- Reduced sex drive
Behavioural symptoms of stress are those that can be observed in a person’s actions and behaviours. These can include changes in eating habits, increased use of alcohol or drugs, and neglecting responsibilities. Behavioural stress symptoms can result from changes in mood and energy levels, which can impact a person’s motivation and ability to complete tasks. Behavioural stress symptoms can also be a coping mechanism for dealing with stress, such as overeating or withdrawal from social activities. Behavioural symptoms can include:
- Changes in eating habits, such as overeating or undereating
- Increased use of alcohol or drugs
- Withdrawing from social activities or relationships
- Procrastination or neglecting responsibilities
- Difficulty with work or school tasks
- Poor judgement or decision making
- Aggressive or impulsive behaviour
Stress symptoms can also lead to various health problems if not addressed. Some of these health problems include cardiovascular disease, digestive disorders, headaches, mental health issues, and a weakened immune system.
Stress Diagnosis
There are various stress diagnosis options available, depending on the specific symptoms and underlying causes of stress. Here are some common stress diagnosis options:
Physical Exam
A physical exam may identify physical symptoms of stress, such as muscle tension, headaches, and digestive issues. This may involve a general check-up and targeted exams of specific body parts or systems that may be affected by stress, such as the heart or digestive system.
Psychological Assessment
A psychological assessment may be used to identify emotional and behavioural symptoms of stress, such as anxiety, depression, or mood swings. This may involve self-report questionnaires, interviews, or psychological testing to assess symptoms and diagnose underlying mental health conditions.
Laboratory Tests
Laboratory tests may be used to identify underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to stress symptoms. For example, blood tests may be used to identify hormone imbalances, such as elevated cortisol levels, or to assess liver function in cases of excessive alcohol use.
Imaging Tests
Imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRIs, may be used to identify physical symptoms of stress, such as muscle tension or changes in the brain related to stress. For example, an MRI may be used to assess changes in brain activity related to stress and identify areas of the brain that may be affected by stress.
Stress Tests
Stress tests may be used to assess a person’s physical response to stress. For example, a stress test may involve monitoring heart rate and blood pressure while a person performs a stressful task, such as public speaking.
DeepWave Supports Successful Holistic Care Of
DeepWave Supports Successful Holistic Care Of
FIBROMYALGIA
CHRONIC PAIN
DEPRESSION
ANXIETY
STRESS
OCD
PTSD
TRAUMA
INSOMNIA
ADD & ADHD
CHRONIC FATIGUE
MOOD DISORDERS
Session Selection
Individual Session
A single session is perfect if you need a little mental relaxation during moments of heightened stress. Ideal to help combat the effects of, or prepare for a busy week.
Course Of Sessions
We recommend a course of sessions if you are looking at supporting a specific outcome. A course typically lasts five or ten weeks, where one or two light sessions per week can be scheduled.
This course protocol is then repeated every 2 to 3 months. Maintenance or relaxation sessions can be completed weekly or fortnightly during this more focused period; this is especially recommended if work or life stresses are significant.
Session Selection
Individual Session
A single session is perfect if you need a little mental relaxation during moments of heightened stress. Ideal to help combat the effects of, or prepare for a busy week.
Course Of Sessions
We recommend a course of sessions if you are looking at supporting a specific outcome. A course typically lasts five or ten weeks, where one or two light sessions per week can be scheduled.
This course protocol is then repeated every 2 to 3 months. Maintenance or relaxation sessions can be completed weekly or fortnightly during this more focused period; this is especially recommended if work or life stresses are significant.
Related Articles
Increasing Happiness – Recommended Reads
Increasing Happiness – recommended reads. The following list of recommended reads offers different perspectives and techniques for increasing happiness, such
February 14, 2023
No Comments
Overcoming The Effects Of Large ‘T’ Trauma A Journey Towards Emotional Well-Being
In this blog – Overcoming the Effects of Large T Trauma: A Journey towards Emotional Well-Being, we will be focusing
February 14, 2023
No Comments
Example DeepWave Sessions
Conscious Living SMR
Length: 30 minutes
The Lake – Deep Theta
Length: 30 minutes
No More Anxiety
Length: 45 Minutes
Purpose: Emotional balance, focus & attention, elevated mood, improved sleep
Purpose: Deep Relaxation, De-stressing, Whole-brain Synchronisation
Purpose: Mental and physical release and reset, deep relaxation and stress relief
Feeling: Chilled,Peaceful, Calming, Colourful
Feeling: Gentle, Chilled, Sleepy, Peaceful, Calming, Enjoyable
Feeling: Profoundly Relaxing and soothing.
Frequencies: 100% SMR (12-15Hz) with 85% at 14.4Hz
Frequencies: 2.25Hz Theta, 57.75 Gamma
Frequencies: Mixed Beta, <1.0Hz super slow wave Delta, 60Hz
This session uses solely frequencies in the SMR range. SMR stands for Sensory Motor Rhythm and is considered a fundamental balance frequency. Practice within this frequency range leads to a heightened ability to respond appropriately in changing situations. Almost like heart rate variability (HRV) for the brain.
The result is improved concentration, focus, brain clarity, elevated mood, improved sleep patterns, and reduced stress. If there was such a thing as a magic bullet frequency, SMR would be in the running.
From the minute this session starts, it will transport you to a quiet spot by the side of a lake. As you listen to bird song and waves lapping around you, this immersive session will lead you into a land of tranquillity and peace. You may drift off to sleep (or feel like you have) only to be gently woken as the sun sets and birds drift off to sleep. You only need to breathe and relax
Rebirth, is designed to put you back in the womb for a transformational relaxation session. Starting with a slow descent from conscious Alpha brain activity, the end point is deep Delta slow wave frequencies less than 1.0Hz.
Example DeepWave Sessions
Conscious Living SMR
Length: 30 Minutes
Purpose: Emotional balance, focus & attention, elevated mood, improved sleep
Feeling: Chilled, Peaceful, Calming, Colourful
Frequencies: 100% SMR (12-15Hz) with 85% at 14.4Hz
This session uses solely frequencies in the SMR range. SMR stands for Sensory Motor Rhythm and is considered a fundamental balance frequency. Practice within this frequency range leads to a heightened ability to respond appropriately in changing situations. Almost like heart rate variability (HRV) for the brain.
The result is improved concentration, focus, brain clarity, elevated mood, improved sleep patterns, and reduced stress. If there was such a thing as a magic bullet frequency, SMR would be in the running.
The Lake – Deep Theta
Length: 30 Minutes
Purpose: Deep Relaxation, De-stressing, Whole-brain Synchronisation
Feeling: Gentle, Chilled, Sleepy, Peaceful, Calming, Enjoyable
Frequencies: 2.25Hz Theta, 57.75 Gamma
From the minute this session starts, it will transport you to a quiet spot by the side of a lake. As you listen to bird song and waves lapping around you, this immersive session will lead you into a land of tranquillity and peace. You may drift off to sleep (or feel like you have) only to be gently woken as the sun sets and birds drift off to sleep. You only need to breathe and relax
Rebirth
Length: 45 Minutes
Purpose: Mental and physical release and reset, deep relaxation and stress relief
Feeling: Profoundly Relaxing and soothing.
Frequencies: Mixed Beta, <1.0Hz super slow wave Delta, 60Hz
Rebirth, is designed to put you back in the womb for a transformational relaxation session. Starting with a slow descent from conscious Alpha brain activity, the end point is deep Delta slow wave frequencies less than 1.0Hz.