Flashbacks Worksheet

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What is the theory behind this worksheet?

A flashback is a psychological occurrence where an individual involuntarily re-experiences aspects of a traumatic event. Triggers for these experiences can include sounds, smells, sights, or situations similar to elements from the traumatic incident. 

Within a flashback, individuals may perceive as though they are re-experiencing the traumatic event, and have feelings of fear, anxiety, and distress. The distinction between past trauma and present reality may blur during these episodes.

Various types of flashbacks exist, including:

  • Visual Flashbacks: These encompass vivid mental images or scenes of the traumatic event.
  • Emotional Flashbacks: This category involves a sudden and intense surge of emotions linked to the traumatic experience.
  • Somatic Flashbacks: Individuals may undergo a re-experience of physical sensations or pain connected to the trauma.
  • Auditory Flashbacks: People may hear sounds or voices associated with the traumatic event.

How will the worksheet help?

Experiencing flashbacks can pose a considerable disruption to a person’s daily life, creating difficulties in maintaining focus, participating in routine activities, and sustaining relationships.

This worksheet provides you with explanations of fundamental self-help strategies for managing flashbacks. It aims to equip you with information on how to support yourself when encountering such distressing experiences.

How to use the worksheet?

Review the explanations of essential self-help strategies. Assess the appropriateness of each strategy for your situation and determine your readiness to implement them when necessary. Save or print the worksheet to have it as a tool for support and a reminder of ways you can assist yourself.

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References

1.-

Beauty after bruises (2018). Four tools to cope with flashbacks. Retrieved from: https://www.beautyafterbruises.org/blog/flashbacks, on January 15, 2024.