Trauma can sound like a scary word. Most people don't realize that what they've experienced was actually trauma. Trauma is defined as an experience that breaks your sense of security. Trauma is an emotional response to a distressing event or situation that often involves a direct threat to life or safety. Trauma will leave you feeling overwhelmed, insecure, and on edge. Some example of trauma includes, but limited to, any from of abuse, death of a loved one, divorce, poverty, chronic illness, mass shootings, and war. After experiencing trauma, a person will experience some level of fear and anxiety. Their nervous system will be telling them something is off and will have feelings of un-safety.
Some common symptoms of trauma:
Shock/disbelief
Helplessness
Guilt/Shame
Changes in sleep patterns
Physical pain
Loss or increase in appetite
Increased substance use/dependence
Racing thoughts
Rapid breathing and/or heart-rate
Everyone's response to trauma will be different. It is important to practice self-soothing techniques to calm your nervous system. By practicing relaxation strategies, it will increase your ability to cope. Trauma can make you feel like you need to isolate to protect yourself but it's important to surround yourself with loving and caring people to create security and healing. If you have experienced trauma, it is important that you speak to a licensed professional to process your trauma and find effective coping skills.