What is Trauma?
Trauma is a strong emotional response to a distressing or life-altering event. It can happen after witnessing or experiencing something that feels overwhelming, unsafe, or threatening – physically or emotionally.
Trauma isn’t defined by just the event itself but how it impacts you. Two people can go through or witness the same situation and respond in very different ways. All reactions and feelings are valid.
Key Characteristics of Trauma:
Nature of the Event:
As mentioned above Trauma is not defined solely by the event itself but by the individual’s subjective response to it. What is traumatic for one person may not be for another.
Examples of traumatic events include physical abuse, accidents, natural disasters, war, medical crises, or witnessing violence.
Type of Trauma:
Acute Trauma
Results from a single incident (car accident or assault)
Chronic Trauma
Repeated and prolonged exposure
Complex Trauma
Exposure to multiple and varied traumatic events
Neurobiological Impact:
Trauma activates the brains stress response systems and if it is persistent it can lead to dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary adrenal axis and changes in brain structure/function, particularly affecting memory, emotional regulation, and executive functioning.
Psychological and Behavioural Effects:
Trauma can lead to a wide range of symptoms including intrusive thought, hypervigilance, disassociation, avoidance, emotional numbing, and problems with trust or self-worth.
If it is left unresolved it can lead into other conditions such as PTSD, Complex PTSD, depression, anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, and somatic symptoms.
There are other characteristics of Trauma, but it is important to understand that even though you can experience long term issues when exposed to trauma – not everyone does, and it can happen in various ways. Please see the table below:
However, it is essential for everyone to focus on recovering by participating in group sessions, activities, therapy, and/or practicing some exercises to bring back the sense of safety and security.
What are the early signs?
You may notice symptoms within hours or days after the event, including:
Feeling numb or emotionally detached
Trouble sleeping or having nightmares
Sudden waves of sadness, anger, or anxiety
Difficulty concentrating
Physical Symptoms (headaches, fatigue, stomach issues)
Avoidance of people, places, or situations that trigger reminders
These signs are normal responses to stress. But if they persist, it’s important to seek support.