Recognizing Trauma

We use the word “trauma” in everyday lives, either in the news, in casual conversations, or maybe even as a joke at times. But for many people, having trauma is their reality. It is an experience that resides both in the mind and body, often years after the main event that caused the trauma occurred. Trauma has the power to change the way we think or feel, any maybe even how we engage with the world around us at any given moment. 

What is Trauma? 

Trauma is the emotional and psychological response to an incident or occurrence which severely upsets or disturbs. It’s not always bodily harm, it can also be emotional harm. Trauma can be the result of a singular event, multiple events, or even ongoing situations that the person just cannot handle. 

It is significant to keep in mind that trauma is subjunctive. It can look different from one person to the next. The true impact of an event is how a person feels and copes after it, not the actual incident itself. 

Types of Trauma

Trauma isn’t just a one-size fits all. It comes in many different forms, such as:

• Acute Trauma → Results from one singular incident, like a car accident. 

• Chronic Trauma → Repeated and prolonged exposure to unsettling events. 

• Complex Trauma → Being exposed to multiple traumatic events, such as child abuse. 

• Secondary Trauma → Getting traumatized by hearing the first hand experiences of others. 

What does trauma look like?

Trauma shows up in people differently. Some people may become distant and become quiet, while others may end up being very overwhelmed and easily agitated. Here are a couple other ways it may show up in others: 

• Flashbacks

• Nightmares 

• Avoiding reminders of the trauma 

• Emotional numbness

• Detachment

• Difficulty sleeping or concentrating

• Mood swings

• Intense mood swings

At times, it’s not always obvious. Always check up on your loved ones, because sometimes even the happiest person in the room is silently struggling. 

Signs Professional Help may be needed

Not all trauma needs professional help and not everyone benefits from it. But, when it begins to interfere with your daily life, that’s when it may need to be considered. Seeking help when the trauma is consuming your relationships, work, or even your overall well-being can be life changing. Here are some signs when it may be helpful to start speaking to a mental health professional: 

• Persistent anxiety or sadness

• Inability to commit to daily responsibilities due to trauma

• Substance abuse as a way to cope

• Emotional outbursts

• Withdrawing from loved ones 

• Self harm or thoughts of suicide. 

Admitting to yourself that you need professional help is one of the bravest things you can do. There is absolutely no shame in seeking help.

Trauma is deeply personal, and many times, invisible. Whether it starts from a singular moment or a whole lifetime of experiences, the impact it brings is real- it deserves both care and understanding. If you or a loved one is dealing with the massive impact that trauma brings, remind yourself that healing is always a reality. Support is out there for everyone and anyone. You are not alone.

We see you and we hear you, reach out to us as we believe that everyone deserves an equal chance to heal.