Understanding Trauma: Signs And Symptoms To Identify If You Have Been Through Trauma

Deborah C. Escalante

How do I know if I have trauma?
How do I know if I have trauma?

What is Trauma?

Trauma is the term used to describe the psychological, emotional, and physical responses to a deeply distressing or dangerous event. It is a normal reaction to an abnormal situation and can take many forms, including physical, psychological, cognitive, and behavioral responses. Trauma can occur as a result of a one-time event or a series of events, and can be either short-term or long-term.

Signs and Symptoms of Trauma

The signs and symptoms of trauma can vary from person to person, but there are common signs and symptoms that can indicate that a person is suffering from trauma. These include:

Intrusive Memories

One of the most common signs of trauma is intrusive memories. These are recurrent, unwanted distressing memories of the traumatic event. They can take the form of flashbacks, where the person is reliving the traumatic event as if it were happening again, or upsetting dreams or nightmares about the traumatic event.

Emotional Responses

People who have experienced trauma often have difficulty regulating their emotions, and can experience a range of emotions, including fear, guilt, shame, and anger. They may also experience severe emotional distress or physical reactions to something that reminds them of the traumatic event.

Avoidance

People who have experienced trauma may also try to avoid situations, people, and activities that remind them of the traumatic event. This can include avoiding talking or thinking about the event, or avoiding places, people, or activities that remind them of the event.

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Self-Destructive Behaviors

People who have experienced trauma may also engage in self-destructive behaviors, such as substance abuse, reckless behavior, or self-harm. These behaviors can be an attempt to manage the emotional distress or physical pain associated with the trauma.

Diagnosing Trauma

The diagnosis of trauma is usually made by a mental health professional. The diagnosis is usually based on a thorough assessment of the person’s symptoms, as well as a review of their medical and psychological history. The mental health professional may also use diagnostic tools, such as a structured interview or psychological tests, to assess the person’s symptoms and diagnosis.

Treatment for Trauma

Once a diagnosis of trauma has been made, the mental health professional will work with the person to develop a treatment plan. Treatment for trauma can include a range of approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and medication.

The goal of treatment for trauma is to help the person to manage their symptoms, reduce their distress, and increase their functioning. Treatment can also help the person to develop new coping skills and strategies to manage their symptoms.

Conclusion

Trauma is a normal reaction to an abnormal situation, and can take many forms. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of trauma, and to seek help if needed. With appropriate treatment, people can learn to manage their symptoms, reduce their distress, and increase their functioning.

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