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Trauma is defined as any type of distressing event or experience that can have an impact on a person’s ability to cope and function. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), describes trauma as “an event, or series of events, that causes moderate to severe stress reactions…[that are] characterized by a sense of horror, helplessness, serious injury, or the threat of serious injury or death.” Trauma is subjective, as every individual is different, and an experience that one individual may perceive to be traumatic, another individual may not. The National Library of Medicine provides examples of traumatic events or experiences, some of which include:

  • Natural disasters
  • Life-threatening situations (e.g., car crash)
  • Any form of physical, sexual, or emotional abuse
  • Social discrimination or forms of prejudice
  • Family violence

It is, however, important to bear in mind that trauma is defined more by its response than its trigger. Response to a traumatic event varies significantly among people, but there are some basic symptoms of trauma that are common. 

What Is Hyper-Independence?

As the name suggests, hyper-independence is defined as “an over-investment in autonomy and self-reliance.” Hyper-independence is when the strength of independence is nullified by the complete inability to depend on others. Common signs an individual with hyper-independence may exhibit include any combination of the following examples, provided by Verywell Mind

  • Refusing to ask for help
  • Refusing to accept help
  • Refusing or struggling to delegate tasks to others
  • Overachieving in work or school
  • Reserved personality
  • Being secretive
  • Mistrusting others
  • Difficulty opening up in relationships
  • Few close relationships
  • Fearing relational commitments
  • High-stress levels

Although all responses involve a deep distrust of others, the symptoms of hyper-independence will manifest differently and vary from person to person. Experts assert that hyper-independence is a survival trait developed through intergenerational, childhood, or adult adverse experiences. It usually stems from deep emotional damage or a history of trauma, creating a fear of betrayal or abandonment. The connection between hyper-independence and trauma is that hyper-independence is a known trauma response.

Treatment In Calabasas

Calabasas is a city in California. It is a well-known suburb of Los Angeles, located west of the San Fernando Valley and north of the Santa Monica Mountains. Over the past decade, the city of Calabasas has grown in its reputation for luxury as well as for privacy which makes it a hidden gem for residential living for society’s elite, and one of the most desirable destinations in Los Angeles County. It is also home to a plethora of highly qualified mental health clinicians providing an array of therapeutic services and treatment options. 

The information above is provided for the use of informational purposes only. The above content is not to be substituted for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment, as in no way is it intended as an attempt to practice medicine, give specific medical advice, including, without limitation, advice concerning the topic of mental health. As such, please do not use any material provided above to disregard professional advice or delay seeking treatment.

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