What is Trauma? Do I Have It? How Can Trauma Therapy Help?

There’s been a lot of talk about trauma lately. With growing mental health awareness, many people wonder: what is trauma? For years, we’ve associated it with severe events or veterans, but trauma covers much more. Let’s break it down!

What is Trauma?

So, what is trauma? Trauma is our emotional response to deeply disturbing or overwhelming experiences. Trauma isn’t limited to life-threatening situations; it includes any event that’s too intense for us to fully process and cope with. Our brains are skilled at building defenses to protect us, which is why many people don’t realize they carry trauma. But over time, even the best “armor” starts to crack, revealing what’s been buried.

Trauma isn’t something you choose; your body decides. Our brains and bodies have a survival instinct that doesn’t need permission, so trauma isn’t your fault. The good news? Healing is within your control.

Types of Trauma: More Than You Might Think

Since trauma looks different for everyone, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to what is trauma. Here are some common types of traumatic experiences:

• Abuse (physical, sexual, emotional, psychological, financial, cultural)
• Accidents or injuries
• Chronic health issues or medical interventions
• Assault, harassment, or victimization
• Discrimination based on identity (race, gender, disability, sexuality, etc.)
• Natural disasters
• Loss of loved ones, including pets
• Witnessing violence or life-threatening events
• Neglect
• War or combat experiences
• Intergenerational trauma (historical events like slavery or genocide)
• Collective trauma from events like COVID-19 or mass shootings

How Do I Know if I Have Trauma?

As you gain an understanding of, “what is trauma?” it’s normal to then start asking, “Do I have trauma?” it’s possible unprocessed trauma may be affecting you. Trauma impacts multiple systems in the body, leading to a wide range of symptoms. Here are a few key signs to consider.

Physical Symptoms of Trauma

• Chronic fatigue despite sleep
• Persistent headaches or migraines
• Body pain (muscle tension, stiffness, chronic pain)
• Sleep disruptions (difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or restless sleep)
• Gastrointestinal issues (nausea, stomach pain, appetite changes)
• Increased heart rate or palpitations
• Shortness of breath or hyperventilation
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Skin issues like hives or rashes
• Feeling flushed or hot

(Note: These symptoms can have other causes, so always check with your doctor.)

Emotional Symptoms of Trauma

• Intrusive thoughts, memories, or flashbacks
• Persistent fear, anxiety, or panic
• Avoidance of trauma reminders or triggers
• Emotional numbness or disconnect
• Intense anger, fear, guilt, shame, irritability, or sadness
• Feeling detached, withdrawing socially, or losing interest
• Hypersensitivity or critical self-talk

Behavioral Symptoms of Trauma

• Difficulty trusting or avoiding relationships
• People-pleasing to avoid conflict
• Trouble setting boundaries
• Needing control to feel safe
• Reckless behavior or neglecting safety
• Excessive apologizing, even without fault

What is Trauma Therapy, and How Can It Help?

Healing from trauma can open up a new experience of life. Trauma therapy gives you a safe, nonjudgmental space to understand your past, get to know yourself, and even make mistakes along the way. My top priority? Helping you build a sense of safety within yourself. We start by noticing how your body reacts to different experiences, learning ways to regulate your nervous system.

As you feel more grounded, we explore your emotions. Together, we’ll create coping strategies you can use between sessions to regain control over your emotions. When you’re feeling safe, the deeper trauma work begins. We’ll look at how your past impacts your life today and build trust within yourself. I use EMDR, which allows you to process trauma without needing to revisit every painful detail. Therapy is a collaborative journey, and your comfort is my priority.

Final Thoughts: Taking the First Step Toward Healing

Ready to get unstuck, feel safe in your body, and take control of your emotions? Don’t wait. Schedule a session today through our client portal or give us a call at 770-283-8386.

If this hit, read these next...