UNDERSTANDING TRAUMA

The word “trauma” describes an experience that is distressing enough to overwhelm the involved person’s ability to cope. These are often situations in which the individual feels severely threatened, physically or emotionally. Traumatic experiences can range significantly – anything from a minor car accident to being exposed to warfare can cause trauma.

Possible Reactions to Trauma

Below are possible reactions to trauma, it is important to remember that people can respond to trauma in different ways. An individual may respond to trauma in a way that is not listed, or an individual may not experience much of a reaction to a traumatic event.

EMOTIONAL RESPONSES

Guilt
Shame
Embarrassment
Denial or Doubt
Anger
Distrust
Hopelessness
Loss of control/powerlessness
Depression
Suicidal
Numb or restricted range of feelings
Hyper-alertness or hyper-vigilance
Detached
Need to control everyday tasks
Depression
Concern with burdening others

PHYSICAL RESPONSES

Nightmares
Shaking
Anxiety/Fear
Pain
Headaches
Sleeplessness
Exhaustion
Stomach problems
Appetite changes
Sexual fears or problems
Flashbacks
Difficulty concentrating or remembering things
Unpleasant memories resurfacing

BEHAVIORAL RESPONSES

Lifestyle changes
Avoiding normal daily activities such as work or school
Avoiding people
Increasing use of alcohol/drugs
Refusing to talk about what happened or limiting discussion about the event.
Denying that the event happened
Acting like the event was no big deal
Substance use

REMEMBER!

Every person is unique

and may have different reactions after experiencing domestic or sexual violence.

It is not your fault

Survivors of violence are never to blame for the violence — no matter where or how it happens.