Trauma is complicated, sometimes making it difficult to recognize and treat. Most people experience stressful or adverse situations at one point in their lives, however, not everyone goes on to develop a trauma disorder.
Trauma comes from being unable to cope with these experiences. It can appear as other mental health issues or even manifest as physical health problems.
Understanding what trauma is and how to recognize it is an important first step in getting help.
How Common Is Trauma In The US?
Experiencing trauma is more common than one may think, with 70%+ of adults reporting having experienced some kind of traumatic event in their lives. Situations such as car accidents, the death of a loved one, divorce, or losing a job may all be considered traumatic experiences.
However, not everyone will go on to develop a trauma disorder and symptoms that can make it hard to function. Only about 7-8% of people in the US will develop Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Bad Situations vs Actual Trauma
Almost everyone will experience a negative or stressful situation at some point in their lives. However, experiences that often lead to trauma go above and beyond what we might consider a “bad situation”.
A bad situation may be a breakup with your boyfriend or girlfriend, but a traumatic situation would be experiencing violence during that breakup. Another example of a bad situation could be getting a bee sting, it may hurt and cause harm, but usually doesn’t give someone symptoms of trauma.
However, if they are extremely allergic and get stung by multiple bees, it could cause a severe allergic reaction that could be traumatic and cause fear of future episodes.
Some common situations that may cause one to develop symptoms of trauma include:
- Physical, sexual, or emotional abuse
- Serving in combat or growing up in a war zone
- Living in a violent community
- Sudden death of a loved one
- School shooting
- Car accident
- Serious medical injury
- Natural disaster
When Does An Adverse Situation Become Traumatic?
It’s normal to experience adverse situations in life. Experiencing small challenges and overcoming stress can help us grow and make us resilient. However, if a situation causes ongoing harm or leaves us with symptoms that we are unable to cope with, it can be a sign of trauma.
During stressful experiences the body goes into flight or fight mode, causing the stress hormone cortisol to kick in. This can increase our heart rate, and breathing and make us hyper-aware of our surroundings. It is an evolutionary trait that is used to make us extra defensive and keep us protected during times of danger. However, people experiencing symptoms of trauma are unable to get out of this state of survival, even during moments when danger is not present.
If too much cortisol is present and the body stays in fight or flight, it can cause chronic inflammation and symptoms of physical & mental health problems.
How Do I Know If I Have Trauma?
Trauma is not always easy to recognize, especially in yourself. If you have a stressful or traumatic experience and are experiencing some of the following warning signs, you may be suffering from trauma and could benefit from reaching out for professional mental health support.
- Depression or anxiety
- Feelings of guilt, shame, and unworthiness
- Flashbacks or nightmares
- Intrusive thoughts
- Avoiding people, places, or situations that trigger traumatic memories or feelings of anxiety
- If you feel disconnected from your emotions and body it may be a sign of emotional numbness from trauma.
- Problems with substance abuse. Drugs and alcohol are common ways to cope with trauma and numb emotional pain.
- Physical health problems such as stomachaches, headaches, and joint pain without a direct cause. Trauma causes inflammation and can even trigger autoimmune diseases.
- Unstable relationships, trouble forming connections, or avoiding intimacy.
- Self-harm or suicidal thoughts. This can be a way to negatively cope with emotional pain.
Trauma Treatment in Utah
It’s important to seek help from a mental health professional if you notice the warning signs of trauma or are struggling to function with daily tasks. Maple Mountain Mental Health & Wellness Center has a compassionate team of trauma-informed therapists who can provide comprehensive support.
We understand the complex nature of trauma and offer trauma-informed treatments such as EMDR, Accelerated Resolution, and Therapy-Assisted Ketamine Therapy based on your individual needs. Reach out to our Admissions team today for more information.
Sources
National Center for PTSD. US Department of Veterans Affairs.
How To Manage Trauma. National Council of Mental Wellbeing.
