Trauma Symptoms Affect Physical and Mental Health
Trauma is a deeply stressful or disturbing experience that triggers an individual's ability to cope and stay normal. Whether it stems from a single event or prolonged exposure to stressors, trauma can leave lasting effects on both the mind and body. In this blog, we'll delve into how trauma symptoms can affect physical and mental health and explore the interconnectedness between the two. But first, let's learn about the signs of Trauma that are developing.
What are the Developing Trauma Symptoms?
Trauma and its developing symptoms can vary widely depending on the individual, the type of trauma experienced, and other factors such as resilience, support systems, and coping mechanisms. However, there are trauma symptoms that may affect people in various aspects. Here are some common signs:
Re-experiencing Symptoms
- Vivid and distressing recollections of the traumatic event, often feeling as if the event is happening again.
- Disturbing dreams related to the trauma that may cause trouble sleeping and insomnia.
- Unwanted and distressing thoughts, memories, or images of the traumatic event that intrude into daily life.
Avoidance Symptoms:
- Efforts to avoid people, places, activities, or situations that remind the individual of the event related to emotional trauma.
- Feeling emotionally detached or numb, experiencing a sense of emptiness or disconnection from others.
- Reluctance or refusal to discuss the traumatic event or related emotions and memories.
Hyperarousal Symptoms:
- Feeling constantly on edge, alert, or "on guard" for potential threats or danger.
- Difficulty controlling anger or irritability, experiencing sudden outbursts of rage or aggression.
- Trouble concentrating, focusing, paying attention, or remembering tasks, often due to heightened arousal levels and intrusive thoughts.
Negative Changes in Mood and Cognition:
- Distorted beliefs about oneself, others, and the world, such as feeling permanently damaged or unsafe.
- Difficulty recalling specific details of the traumatic event or experiencing gaps in memory surrounding the trauma.
- Aggressive behavior, feelings of sadness, fear, guilt, shame, or worthlessness that persist long after the traumatic event.