We live in a country with an exceptionally high rates of crime and violence. The reality of many South Africans is that they have been victims of crime and often more than once and if not a victim themselves are likely to have been a witness to a criminal / violent act (an armed robbery, hijacking, rape, witness to murder). It is this exposure to ongoing, relentless stress that causes emotional and psychological trauma.

It is not only traumatic experiences of crime and violence that cause emotional and psychological trauma but the sudden death of a loved one, a car accident, breakup of a significant relationship, discovery of a terminal illness, surgery, and sports injuries.

Traumatic experiences often involve a threat to life or safety, but any situation that leaves you feeling overwhelmed and alone can be traumatic, even if it doesn’t involve physical harm. The more frightened and helpless you feel, the more likely you are to be traumatized.

For children, exposure to adverse childhood experiences such as growing up in an unstable or unsafe environment, separation from a parent, serious illness, intrusive medical procedures, sexual, physical, or verbal abuse, domestic violence, neglect or being bullied can have severe and long lasting effects. It increases the risk of many health problems and social problems in adulthood.

Should you or a loved one need trauma support or counselling please contact us (043) 743 7266 to set up a face to face counselling session or visit us at 3 St James Road, Southernwood, East London or email us at admin@masithethe.co.za or office@masithethe.co.za