Trauma

As we move through life, our brains are constantly taking in, processing, and storing information through a built-in sensory and emotional system. However, when we encounter overwhelming fear or intense emotions, the brain’s processing system can become disrupted.

Instead of being stored as a resolved memory, the experience may get “stuck,” leading to symptoms or emotional triggers tied to the original event.

These lingering reactions are often signs that additional processing may be needed for healing to occur..

These symptoms may include:

• negative emotions including fear, sadness, anxiety, shame, guilt, anger, and sadness

• avoidance of people, places, or activities that are similar

• difficulty experiencing and regulating our emotions

• somatic symptoms in the body

• flashbacks, nightmares, and other triggers

• substance use

In some cases, trauma symptoms may persist and intensify to the point of meeting criteria for a diagnosis of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

The good news is that extensive research has shown that healing is possible—and there are effective, evidence-based therapeutic approaches designed to support recovery from trauma.

For more information on ways to address trauma, read here.