Understanding Trauma's Impact on Future Outlook

Many individuals experience uncertainty about their future, whether it pertains to marriage, parenthood, or broader life ambitions, often struggling to visualize themselves in the years to come. This phenomenon is known as a "Sense of Foreshortened Future."

Alec Williams, a psychotherapist and trauma specialist in London affiliated with the BACP, explains that this sensation does not solely indicate a fear of premature death; rather, it reflects a profound disruption in one's worldview and trust in their environment. Such feelings frequently emerge following significant psychological trauma, which can distort an individual’s perception of time and create a disconnect between their past, present, and future.

Williams notes: "Those experiencing this sensation often find it challenging to formulate long-term plans or engage in relationships, as the future appears devoid of meaning or security. While the concept exists on an intellectual level, it lacks emotional resonance and significance."

Experts assert that psychotherapy can play a crucial role in helping individuals regain trust in life by reestablishing the connections among the past, present, and future, thereby placing trauma within its appropriate temporal context. Additionally, they recommend practices such as self-awareness, participation in positive activities, social engagement, and self-care as practical strategies to mitigate symptoms.