What is Trauma?
Trauma is an emotional response to a terrible event like an accident, abuse, natural disaster, or violence. Trauma can have lasting effects on a person's mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
Not everyone who experiences a traumatic event develops PTSD, but trauma affects each person differently. The severity and duration of trauma, along with individual factors, determine its impact.
Types of Trauma
Acute Trauma
Results from a single incident (accident, assault, natural disaster)
Chronic Trauma
Repeated and prolonged exposure to stressful events (domestic violence, ongoing abuse)
Complex Trauma
Multiple traumatic events, often beginning in childhood (neglect, abuse, abandonment)
Vicarious Trauma
Trauma experienced indirectly through witnessing or hearing about others' trauma
What is PTSD?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Symptoms typically begin within three months of the trauma but can appear later.
PTSD Symptoms (Lasting at least 1 month)
Re-experiencing:
- • Flashbacks or nightmares
- • Intrusive thoughts
- • Physical reactions to reminders
Avoidance:
- • Avoiding trauma reminders
- • Avoiding thoughts/feelings
- • Social withdrawal
Negative Changes:
- • Negative thoughts/moods
- • Memory problems
- • Loss of interest
Hyperarousal:
- • Hypervigilance
- • Irritability or anger
- • Sleep disturbances
Treatment Options
Trauma-Focused Therapy
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing): Highly effective for PTSD. Uses bilateral stimulation to help process traumatic memories.
Trauma-Focused CBT: Helps process trauma, challenge negative beliefs, and develop coping skills.
Prolonged Exposure Therapy: Gradually confronts trauma-related memories and situations safely.
Other Treatments
- • Medication (SSRIs, sometimes combined with therapy)
- • Group therapy for trauma survivors
- • Somatic therapies (body-based approaches)
- • Mindfulness and relaxation techniques
Recovery is Possible
Healing from trauma takes time, but recovery is possible with the right support and treatment. Trauma-informed therapists understand the complexities of trauma and can help you process and heal in a safe, supportive environment.