Trauma and PTSD
What is trauma?
“Trauma” is a term used to describe any experience that is overwhelming to the nervous system. When this happens, our bodies automatically go into "fight/flight/freeze" mode to try to protect ourselves. Unprocessed traumatic experiences can get "stuck" in our bodies long past the time of the original occurrence, leaving us with exaggerated responses to everyday life stressors. Trauma and PTSD symptoms often overlap with those of depression and anxiety.
Some common symptoms include:
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Feeling triggered in relationships and other life experiences
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Intrusive memories, flashbacks, or nightmares
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Feeling emotionally numb or shut down
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Easily startled or jumpy
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Trouble sleeping
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Feeling detached from sense of self or physical body
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Difficulty making decisions
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Persistent fear, guilt, shame, sadness
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Ruminating thoughts about how the trauma unfolded, and your part in what happened
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it is possible that they are trauma-related. The good news is that it is also possible to reduce these symptoms, and to find more calmness and contentment in your life.