What is Medical Trauma?

IV drip stand with bag and tubes in a medical setting

Medical trauma refers to physical and emotional responses to pain, injury, serious illness, medical procedures, and negative treatment experiences. Medical trauma can lead the brain and the body to reject important present or future physical healing as a result of past traumatic experiences. Therefore, healing from medical trauma can aid in future help-seeking behaviours.

  • Provides a safe space to process fear, anxiety, or helplessness from past medical experiences

  • Helps you understand and work through trauma responses, such as panic, avoidance, or hypervigilance

  • Teaches calming and grounding techniques to manage medical-related triggers

  • Reduces anxiety around future medical appointments or procedures

  • Supports healing from feelings of betrayal, loss of control, or bodily violation

  • Rebuilds trust in healthcare systems or providers, if it has been damaged

  • Validates your experience and helps you feel seen, believed, and supported

  • Improves emotional regulation and helps reduce symptoms like nightmares, flashbacks, or numbness

  • Strengthens your sense of safety and empowerment moving forward

Medical Trauma Counselling:

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