Trauma

We all respond differently to traumatic events and what is considered ‘traumatic’ can also vary from person to person. In general, trauma can be defined as a psychological, emotional response to an event or an experience that is deeply distressing or disturbing. Traumatic events can be experienced directly, witnessed, or learned, and these experiences often involve a threat to life or safety. However, any situation that leaves you feeling overwhelmed can result in trauma, even if it does not involve physical harm. Often misunderstood, it is not the objective event that is traumatic, but one's subjective emotional experience of the event. 

Emotional and/or psychological trauma can be caused by:

• One time events such as accidents, injuries, attacks (especially when occurring in childhood) 
• Ongoing relentless stress such as battling a life-threatening illness, bullying, domestic violence, or neglect
• Commonly overlooked causes like surgery, sudden loss of a loved one, loss of a significant relationship, or a humiliating or disappointing experience

Individually, we vary in terms of our ability to cope with increased stress and trauma. In some cases, trauma and significant stressors can require psychological intervention when they begin to negatively impact work, relationships, social life, as well as one’s mood and daily routine. 

After experiencing a trauma, individuals may experience any of the following emotional and/or physical symptoms: 

• Shock or denial 
• Confusion, difficulty concentrating 
• Anger, irritability, or mood swings 
• Anxiety and/or fear 
• Guilt, shame, and self-blame 
• Withdrawal 
• Feeling sad or hopeless 
• Feeling disconnected or numb 
• Hypervigilance (being easily startled) 
• Insomnia or nightmares
• Fatigue 
• Edginess or agitation 
• Muscle tension, aches, or pains 

When left untreated, symptoms of trauma may worsen and develop into post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or Complex PTSD for those who have experienced repeated traumas. Other types of trauma related psychological concerns include acute stress disorder, adjustment disorder, and reactive attachment disorder. 

Trauma is an event that can shatter our sense of confidence and contradict our current view of the world. Additionally, trauma can cause stress. However, stress refers to experiences that are providing a consistent psychological and emotional burden.