In general terms, trauma can be defined as a psychological, emotional response to and event or an experience that is deeply distressing or disturbing. This trauma definition can refer to something upsetting, such as being involved in an accident, having an illness, or injury, losing a loved one, or going through a divorce. It can also encompass the far extreme and include experiences that are severely damaging, such as rape or torture.

Whether you have experienced a big T trauma, a rape, a loss, and illness, or a little t trauma, a school or parent humiliation, trauma is the same.

Often, shock and denial are typical reactions to a traumatic event. Over time, these emotional responses may fade, but a survivor may also experience reactions long-term. These can include:

• Anger

• Persistent feelings of sadness and despair

• Flashbacks

• Unpredictable emotions

• Physical symptoms, such as nausea and headaches

• Intense feelings of guilt, as if they are somehow responsible for the event

• An altered sense of shame

• Feelings of isolation and hopelessness

Let’s work together to ease your pain.