According to the American Psychological Association Dictionary of Psychology, trauma is defined as:
“Any disturbing experience that results in significant fear, helplessness, dissociation, confusion, or other disruptive feelings intense enough to have a long-lasting negative effect on a person’s attitudes, behavior, and other aspects of functioning.”
Trauma can be physical, emotional, or psychological — and it often affects more than just the mind. It impacts relationships, behaviors, and a person’s overall sense of safety and stability.
Examples of Traumatic Experiences
Trauma may result from a wide range of experiences, including but not limited to:
- Car accidents
- Natural disasters (e.g., earthquakes, hurricanes)
- Witnessing or experiencing violence
- Childhood neglect
- Sexual harassment or assault
- Domestic violence
- Living with a parent or partner who has a substance use disorder or unmanaged mental illness
Why Trauma Affects People Differently
Trauma is not only about what happens — it’s about how your mind and body interpret and respond to it. Two people may go through the same event, but only one may walk away traumatized. This variability is influenced by many factors, such as:
1. Type and Severity of the Trauma
- A one-time event (like a car accident) may be less impactful than repeated trauma (like long-term abuse).
- Highly violent or life-threatening events often lead to stronger psychological effects.
2. Age at the Time of Trauma
- Trauma in early childhood can disrupt brain development and attachment.
- Adults may have more coping tools, but trauma can still be deeply impactful at any age.
3. Biological and Genetic Factors
- Brain chemistry and genetics influence how people respond to stress.
- Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to anxiety, depression, or PTSD.
4. Past Trauma History
- Previous traumatic experiences can make someone more vulnerable to new trauma — this is sometimes called “sensitization.”
5. Support Systems and Environment
- People with strong social support tend to recover more effectively.
- Lack of safety or ongoing exposure to stress worsens trauma’s effects.
6. Personality and Coping Style
- Some individuals are naturally more resilient and flexible under stress.
- Others may be more prone to overthinking, emotional withdrawal, or perfectionism, which can complicate healing.
7. Cultural and Social Influences
- Cultural norms can shape how trauma is interpreted and discussed.
- In some communities, trauma is stigmatized, which can discourage people from seeking help.
8. Access to Treatment
- Access to therapy, mental health care, or medication plays a significant role in healing.
- Those without adequate support may experience prolonged symptoms.
9. Meaning Made from the Trauma
- People who are able to make sense of their trauma, or use it as a source of personal growth, often experience better outcomes.
- Others may feel stuck in guilt, shame, or despair.
Common Trauma Responses
Trauma can show up in many different ways.
Emotional Responses
- Anxiety or panic
- Depression or deep sadness
- Irritability or frequent anger
- Emotional numbness or disconnection
- Hypervigilance (feeling constantly unsafe)
- Guilt or shame, including survivor’s guilt
Cognitive Responses
- Flashbacks or intrusive memories
- Nightmares or sleep disturbances
- Trouble concentrating or making decisions
- Confusion or memory gaps
- Negative self-perception or worldview
Behavioral Responses
- Avoiding people, places, or conversations that are triggering
- Social withdrawal or isolation
- Increased substance use
- Self-harm or reckless behavior
- Over-controlling or perfectionistic behaviors
Physical Responses
- Sleep disruptions (insomnia or oversleeping)
- Fatigue or low energy
- Muscle tension, headaches, or stomach issues
- Changes in appetite
- Increased heart rate, sweating, or dizziness
When Trauma Goes Unresolved
Over time, untreated trauma can lead to more serious or chronic conditions, such as:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) – often the result of repeated or prolonged trauma, especially in childhood
- Dissociation – feeling disconnected from reality or oneself
- Attachment issues – difficulty forming or maintaining healthy relationships
A Note of Caution: Trauma vs. Other Root Causes
It’s important to remember that not all difficult behaviors or symptoms stem directly from trauma. Some may be linked to learned behavior, intergenerational trauma, or medical and neurological conditions. In today’s social media age, the word “trauma” is sometimes overused or misapplied. Be careful not to label something as trauma without a thorough mental health assessment or ruling out other possibilities. As clinicians, we must strive to identify the why behind a person’s experience in order to help resolve the what.
Final Thoughts
Being trauma-informed isn’t just a clinical framework — it’s a compassionate mindset. It means understanding that trauma shapes how people think, feel, and interact with the world. Whether you’re a clinician, a loved one, or someone on your own healing journey, recognizing the signs of trauma and responding with empathy is the first step toward recovery.
Healing isn’t always linear — and it’s rarely easy — but it is possible. No one should have to walk that path alone.