Trauma Support – Self-Harm and Suicidal Ideation
At Happy Peeps Counselling and Therapy, we specialise in providing compassionate trauma therapy and support for children, adolescents, and adults who feel distressed, overwhelmed, or struggle with everyday challenges. Trauma can result in significant mental health challenges, creating deep emotional pain that can be hard to manage. Our experienced team works with you to build practical skills and coping strategies to help you feel safe and navigate daily life more effectively.
We understand that trauma can cause dissociation, making it difficult to stay connected to your surroundings or cope with your emotions. Our tailored approach ensures that you gain tools and strategies that suit your unique needs, empowering you on your journey to recovery.
What is Trauma?
Trauma refers to emotional and psychological distress caused by highly stressful or life-threatening events. This may include:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): A complex trauma disorder that often results from witnessing or experiencing a traumatic event, such as:
- Serious car accidents
- Physical or sexual abuse
- Emotional abuse or neglect
- Domestic violence
- Natural disasters
- Military combat or war
Symptoms of PTSD may include:
- Reliving the traumatic event, similar to a replaying video in your mind.
- Avoiding memories or situations associated with the event.
- Feeling emotionally numb, disconnected, or dissociated from your identity, thoughts, or memories.
Causes of Trauma
Trauma may arise from one or multiple distressing events. Common causes include:
- Physical Assault or Abuse
- Sexual Assault or Abuse
- Domestic and Family Violence
- Home Invasions
- Serious Accidents (car accidents, personal injuries)
- Loss of Limbs or Physical Function
- Medical Illness
- Military-Related Trauma
- Complex Grief and Loss
- Psychological or Emotional Abuse
Additionally, trauma symptoms may develop from living in an environment with someone else experiencing trauma, resulting in high levels of stress and emotional distress.
The Impact of Trauma
Trauma can affect people differently. Some individuals may experience symptoms immediately, while others may not notice effects until days, months, or even years later. Trauma often coexists with other mental health challenges such as:
- Anxiety or depression
- Addiction or substance use issues
- Eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, or binge eating disorder
- Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
Our trauma-informed approach addresses the complex nature of these overlapping concerns, focusing on holistic recovery.
Self-Harm Support
Self-harm, or self-injury, occurs when individuals intentionally harm themselves, often in secret and without suicidal intent. People may self-harm to cope with overwhelming emotions, numb pain, or regain a sense of control. However, the relief is temporary and can lead to long-term physical damage, infections, or even life-threatening complications.
At Happy Peeps, we provide support to:
- Understand the underlying triggers of self-harm.
- Develop healthier coping strategies and emotional regulation techniques.
- Build resilience to break the cycle of self-injury.
Signs of self-harm may include unexplained cuts or injuries, often hidden under clothing. If you or someone you know is struggling, it’s important to seek help.
Suicidal Ideation
Suicidal ideation involves thoughts or plans to end one’s life, often accompanied by feelings that life is no longer worth living. While many people may not act on these thoughts, suicidal ideation is a serious cry for help that should never be ignored.
Risk factors may include:
- Severe depression
- Hopelessness
- Previous suicide attempts
- Feelings of isolation or lack of support
At Happy Peeps, we approach suicidal ideation with empathy and care, providing a safe space to explore emotions and build pathways to hope and recovery.
How We Can Help
Our trauma-informed therapists on the Gold Coast use evidence-based approaches to support your healing. We focus on reconnecting the mind and body, addressing emotional dysregulation, and helping you regain a sense of safety and control.
Our methods include:
- Reality Therapy: A client-centred form of cognitive behavioural therapy designed to address basic psychological needs, including love, belonging, independence, and self-worth.
- Trauma-Informed Care: Prioritising your emotional safety by avoiding re-traumatisation and focusing on recovery without requiring you to relive painful experiences.
Take the First Step
If trauma, self-harm, or suicidal thoughts are affecting your life, know that help is available. At Happy Peeps Counselling and Therapy on the Gold Coast, we are committed to providing a supportive, non-judgmental environment where you can start your healing journey.
Contact us today to take the first step towards reclaiming your sense of well-being.