What is Trauma?
As a trauma-specialized therapist, I constantly get asked “what counts as trauma?” I can already hear the history of external minimizations in their voice. The ghosts of so many family members and friends saying “suck it up”, “it’s not a big deal”, “you’re fine.” With so much talk about trauma in recent years, it has people wondering if they’ve experienced trauma and is it valid. This blog post addresses this concern.
What is Trauma?
Trauma can be defined as a response to a distressing or disturbing event that overwhelms an individual's ability to cope. These events can vary widely and may include:
Acute Trauma: This type of trauma typically involves a single, sudden event, such as a car accident, natural disaster, or violent assault.
Chronic Trauma: Chronic or complex trauma involves repeated exposure to traumatic events over an extended period, often in interpersonal relationships or oppressive environments. Examples include childhood abuse, domestic violence, or ongoing discrimination.
Secondary Trauma: Also known as vicarious trauma, this occurs when individuals are indirectly exposed to traumatic events, such as through witnessing or hearing about the experiences of others, like healthcare professionals, first responders, or journalists covering traumatic events.
Common Symptoms of Trauma
Trauma can affect individuals in various ways, and its symptoms may manifest differently from person to person. Some common symptoms include:
Emotional: Intense feelings of fear, sadness, anger, guilt, or shame; mood swings; emotional numbness or detachment.
Cognitive: Intrusive memories or flashbacks of the traumatic event(s); difficulty concentrating or making decisions; negative beliefs about oneself or the world.
Physical: Headaches, stomachaches, muscle tension, fatigue, sleep disturbances, heightened startle response.
Behavioral: Avoidance of reminders of the trauma; changes in appetite or substance use; hypervigilance; difficulty trusting others.
Final Thoughts
Trauma is a complex and multifaceted experience that can have profound effects on individuals' lives. It's essential to recognize that healing from trauma is possible, and there are resources and support systems available to help you navigate this journey. Remember that you are not alone, and reaching out for help is a courageous step toward reclaiming your well-being and resilience.
