A trauma is a very upsetting or disturbing event that may be frightening or shocking. It is an emotional response to deeply disturbing events that overwhelm an individual’s ability to cope. It may be that you got injured or felt threatened. Oftentimes, it is something that happens to someone you love, and you worry about them being hurt. Traumatic events include things like physical or sexual assault, seeing domestic or local violence, and natural disasters. They can also be severe accidents, violent crimes, or the sudden loss of a loved one. Anything that triggers intense fear or distress can be defined as a trauma.
The Physiology of Trauma
Trauma impacts the brain and body, especially the amygdala, hippocampus, and prefrontal cortex. The nervous system remains in survival mode, making it difficult to feel safe even after the danger has passed.
Common Reactions to Trauma
difficulty sleeping
depression
Fear or anxiety
Shock
physical symptoms such as aches, pains, or dizziness.
Substance use
Specific Reaction to Trauma- Post Traumatic
Stress (PTS)
It is a specific reaction (emotional, psychological, and behavioral) to trauma if the trauma is chronic. It is caused by trauma reminders such as,
- Recollections of what occurred.
- Anything that causes you to remember the trauma: someone talking about it; a sound or an odor; the person or the place that was associated with the trauma, someone who resembles the person who inflicted the trauma; television, music, or films that reference a similar
trauma, or anything else that brings to mind what occurred.
Symptoms of Trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress
Emotional Symptoms
Feeling frightened, sad, or angry
Feeling numb or distant
Mood swings
Feeling guilty or ashamed
Cognitive Symptoms
Having intrusive thoughts or flashbacks
Having nightmares
Being confused or having difficulty concentrating
Avoiding reminders of the trauma
Physical Symptoms
Having trouble sleeping
Feeling tired
Muscle tension
Stomach pain or headaches
Behavioral Symptoms
Pulling away from others
Startling easily
Changes in appetite
Increased alcohol or drug use
Is PTS normal?
Yes! It is natural to have hard reactions after a trauma. You may have extremely intense reactions or
less severe reactions. Everyone is unique. There is no correct or incorrect manner in responding to a trauma.
When is PTS a Problem?
PTS is usually worse right after the trauma and then gets better after a while. After a few weeks or months, most of the time, PTS is not a big problem. Experts call it Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) when the symptoms don’t get better or become worse over time. So, there is a need to tackle this long-term chronic stress, and, hence, therapy and counselling can assist you in overcoming PTSD.
What Assists with Trauma and PTS?
Ask for help if you are having a hard time with your trauma responses, there is always somebody
who can assist you. You have a very good probability of overcoming the trauma, particularly if you can
get the help and support you require.
It is reassuring to understand that reactions are normal and most likely will improve after some time. Your chances are very good that you will improve. At times you can do this alone or with support from your
family; sometimes a counselor can assist, too.. The counselor works with you and your family, if you live with them. They teach you ways to manage your reactions. The counselor makes you an expert in your trauma reactions and how to manage them in a supportive manner.
Tips to Manage Traumatic Reactions
Recall that the trauma is finished and you are no longer in harm now
- Remind yourself that you did your best under the circumstances
- Find out about your reminders of trauma so you can prepare yourself to cope with them
- Stop and calm down by practice when reacting
- Avoid not avoiding reminders and situations as long as they are safe
- Inform your family about what they can do to make you safe and feel safe
