TRAUMA

Trauma is a very pervasive problem that arises from experiencing incidents or a series of events that are emotionally distressing or life-threatening. Such experiences can have lasting negative effects on an individual's functioning and overall well-being, impacting their mental, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual health.

 

Trauma is an emotional response to distressing events such as accidents, crimes, natural disasters, physical or emotional abuse, neglect, violence—whether experienced or witnessed—the loss of a loved one, war, and more. Immediately following such events, feelings of shock and denial are common. Over time, individuals may experience unpredictable emotions, flashbacks, strained relationships, and even physical symptoms like headaches or nausea.

 

Traumatic experiences can erode an individual's sense of safety in the world, fostering a belief that catastrophe could occur at any moment. Events such as the loss of a parent during childhood, motor vehicle accidents, physical violence, sexual assault, military combat, earthquakes, or the unexpected death of a loved one—all sudden and violent disruptions—can result in trauma. Individuals often find themselves mentally reliving these experiences repeatedly, ruminating on what transpired. Such experiences can lead to alterations in brain function, characterized by a heightened sensitivity to perceived threats.