Trauma: What is it & Why
Trauma is an emotional and physical response to a distressing event that overwhelms your ability to cope. According to the American Psychological Association, it can disrupt your sense of security and challenge your view of the world as a safe and predictable place.
Main Types of Trauma
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Acute Trauma: Results from a single distressing incident, such as a car accident, natural disaster, or physical assault.
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Chronic Trauma: Occurs from repeated or prolonged exposure to stressful events, such as ongoing domestic violence, bullying, or childhood neglect.
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Complex Trauma: Involves exposure to multiple, varied traumatic events—often interpersonal in nature—from which escape feels impossible.
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Vicarious (Secondary) Trauma: Experienced by those exposed to the suffering of others, such as first responders, therapists, or healthcare workers.
Common Symptoms
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Emotional: Shock, denial, anger, intense fear, helplessness, and shame.
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Physical: Racing heart, headaches, nausea, fatigue, and being easily startled.
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Cognitive: Difficulty concentrating, memory problems, intrusive thoughts, or flashbacks.
