What is Trauma? Causes and Responses

A simple dictionary definition describes trauma as “a deeply distressing or disturbing experience.” According to the American Psychology Academy, “Trauma is an emotional response to a terrible event like an accident, rape, or natural disaster. Immediately after the event, shock, and denial are typical. Longer term reactions include unpredictable emotions, flashbacks, strained relationships, and even physical symptoms like headaches or nausea.”

What causes trauma?

Trauma occurs differently in different circumstances. While it might be easy to dismiss trauma as only occurring in a large-scale event such as war and natural disasters, trauma can also be experienced on a much smaller scale. A motor vehicle accident that ended up with no injuries can still cause trauma to a person. Witnessing an out-of-the-ordinary event, such as a neighbor’s house fire, or a serious injury to a family member can cause trauma.

Trauma is less about the event that occurred and more about the mental and emotional response you have. A traumatic event releases stress hormones into the body. Likewise, reliving the event again in your mind, also releases those stress hormones.

There are a few ways to flush out those hormones, primarily involving water. After a traumatic event, you should drink lots of water, take hot showers and baths, and have a good cry. The tears of stress contain different chemicals than tears of pain or sorrow. If you feel like crying that is a normal and healthy reaction to the strain of trauma.

What is a normal response?

Trauma can affect people differently depending on their age, culture, or other factors. Younger people may be less likely to recognize or understand what they are going through and may have trouble coping with their emotions. They may be more likely to act out or withdraw from activities.

Older adults may have a harder time adapting to changes in their lives after a traumatic event. They may be more likely to experience physical health problems and may have trouble sleeping or concentrating. People from different cultures may have different ways of expressing and coping with it. They may also have different beliefs about what its causes and how it should be treated. It is important to be aware of how it can affect people differently.

While trauma affects everyone differently there are symptoms that can indicate trauma.

• Agitation, anxiety, or panic attacks.
• Hyper-vigilance.
• Disturbed sleep, nightmares.
• Substance abuse.
• Flashbacks or memory problems.
• Headaches, shakiness, nausea.
• Mood swings, depression, crying spells.

If you notice these symptoms in yourself or a loved one, seek out trauma therapy.

What is trauma therapy?

Trauma therapy provides compassionate support for those who have been through a traumatic experience. There are many resources available to help you cope and start healing. Talking to a counselor is one option, and we would be happy to set up an appointment for you. It can also be helpful to talk to people who were part of the experience with you, as well as those who have been through similar events.

There are support groups available that can provide a safe place to talk about your experiences and receive support from others who understand what you are going through. Other resources that may be helpful include books, websites, and apps. It is important to find a resource that works for you and to seek help if you need it.

If you are feeling like you have experienced trauma and can not heal, please reach out to us at Los Angeles Christian Counseling today. We will assist you in setting up an appointment with one of the many licensed counselors in our directory. Take steps toward healing today!