Gabor Mate once said “Trauma is not what happened to you, trauma is what happened inside of you as a result of what happened to you. Trauma is the psychic wound that you sustained.” It comes in many shapes and cuts at different depths, and can unknowingly wreak havoc without an understanding why. Ultimately, if it’s not addressed, it can affect many aspects of your life.
Understanding what types of trauma and their various symptoms can help you gain insight and learn about available interventions. It is also important to understand that everyone is unique in their experiences and emotions.
What Is Trauma?
The American Psychological Association defines trauma as an emotional response to events such as:
- Accidents.
- Crime.
- Natural disaster.
- Physical or emotional abuse.
- Neglect.
- Experiencing/witnessing violence.
- Dear of a loved one.
- War.
Symptoms of a traumatic response can occur immediately after the occurrence. Common reactions include shock and denial.
Other reactions may include:
- Unpredictable emotions.
- Flashbacks.
- Burdened relationships.
- Sometimes physical symptoms (nausea or headaches).
Types of Trauma
Acute Trauma: A singular event that is perceived as overwhelming or distressful can cause acute trauma. Some examples of this are accidents, natural disasters or sudden violence. Overall symptoms may improve over time with adequate support and coping mechanisms.
Chronic Trauma: When prolonged exposure to a stressful event occurs, chronic trauma may develop. Examples include prolonged abuse, ongoing bullying, and domestic violence. Effects tend to last longer compared to acute trauma.
Complex Trauma: Experiencing multiple events (such as abuse or neglect) can affect development as this typically occurs during childhood. Other aspects such as self-concept, emotional regulation and interpersonal relationships may be dysfunctional.
Developmental Trauma: This takes place during the essential stages of emotional and psychological development of childhood. This may take the form of neglect, family dysfunction or emotional abuse. Long-term mental health and behavior may be affected.
Secondary or Vicarious Trauma: Indirect exposure a traumatic event may cause vicarious trauma. This typically affects professionals such as first responders, therapists, or caregivers who may be working with those who have trauma. Symptoms include distress and emotional exhaustion.
Common Symptoms of Trauma
Trauma can affect everyone differently and take its toll on various aspects.
Emotional Symptoms:
- Depression.
- Anxiety.
- Mood swings.
- Guilt.
- Shame.
- Helplessness.
Behavioral Symptoms:
- Avoiding triggers or reminders.
- Withdrawal.
- Aggression.
- Substance abuse.
Physical Symptoms
- Insomnia.
- Discomfort without a clear cause.
- Lack of appetite or change in eating habits.
Cognitive Symptoms
- Negative thoughts.
- Difficulty focusing.
- Flashbacks.
- Intrusive thoughts.
- Self-blame.
These common symptoms can strongly impact your well-being and everyday life. Having an awareness for these symptoms will help in knowing when to seek support and intervention. With the right steps, healing and recovery can be attained in order to regain control in life.
Knowing When to Seek Help For Trauma
Knowing when to seek help for trauma is an essential aspect of recovery and can set you on the right steps for healing. A combination of the symptoms noted above and their interference with daily life are reasons enough to reach out for assistance.
While the responses to trauma are different for everyone, the importance of seeking professional help cannot be overlooked. Licensed therapists and psychologists who specialize in trauma-informed care can offer a therapeutic care plan specific to your needs.
Mental health professionals can also prescribe necessary medication to help with your recovery. Connecting with others and using community resources can also be helpful during the healing process. Support groups and peer counseling are often made available locally where people can share their experiences and show understanding.
Ultimately, finding the right interventions that fit your personal needs can make a significant difference during recovery.
Self-Care Steps to Take
Trying out some self-care strategies can help you gain a sense of control during a time that can feel difficult or hopeless. Here are actionable steps to consider trying.
- Practice meditation: Deep breathing, mindful meditation or even similar activities such as yoga can help with grounding, reduce anxiety and bring you back to the present moment.
- Establish a routine: The predictability of a routine can be comforting and provides a sense of stability.
- Connect with supportive people: Reaching out to friends and family can help you stay connected with people who can understand and encourage you.
- Set boundaries: Setting limits on interactions that can be triggering will help to prioritize your needs.
- Try creative outlets: Journaling, music, or drawing can help with self-expression
Understanding Trauma: Conclusion
Understanding trauma is a crucial step toward healing and resilience. By acknowledging the profound impact trauma can have on individuals, we open the door to compassion, effective support, and personal recovery. Trauma doesn’t define us, but our responses to it can shape our journey forward. Educating ourselves about the signs, effects, and healing processes helps break down stigma and fosters a more empathetic society. As we deepen our understanding, we empower both ourselves and others to seek the support they need, promote healing, and ultimately build a stronger, more connected community.
Understanding Trauma FAQ
How do you know if you have trauma?
You may have trauma if you are experiencing consistent flashbacks, memories or even nightmares related to a stressful occurrence. Emotional symptoms may include severe anxiety, numbness or depression, while physical symptoms such as difficulty sleeping or heightened startle responses can indicate trauma. If your daily life is impacted, getting support from a mental health professional can help determine if trauma is a main factor.
How does trauma change a person?
As noted earlier, trauma can influence multiple areas of life. Depending on what symptoms emerge, difficulties such as maintaining relationships may also occur. Additionally, trauma can also impact cognitive functions, leading to challenges in concentration, decision-making, and memory.
What is the definition of trauma?
Trauma is a deeply distressing or disturbing experience that overwhelms an individual’s ability to cope, leading to lasting emotional, psychological, or physical effects. It can result from events such as accidents, abuse, violence, or significant loss, and often disrupts a person’s sense of safety and well-being. Trauma can manifest in various ways, including emotional distress, intrusive memories, and difficulties in functioning.
What does trauma do to people?
The effect of trauma can be profound on people since the signs affect one’s psychological and physical well-being. Emotionally, it may lead to symptoms like anxiety, depression, and emotional numbness. Psychologically, trauma can cause persistent intrusive memories, nightmares, and difficulties with concentration or decision-making. Physically, individuals might experience heightened stress responses, sleep disturbances, or chronic health issues. Additionally, trauma can affect relationships and one’s overall sense of safety and trust in the world.
