Most people will experience trauma in their lifetime, whether it’s a car accident, abuse or neglect, the sudden death of a loved one, exposure to the violence of war, or a natural disaster.
While some recover from trauma over time and bounce back, many adults carry the effects of past experiences long after the situation is over.
In these circumstances, the support, guidance, and assistance of a trauma-informed therapist are fundamental to healing and recovery.
Common trauma symptoms
Individuals who have experienced trauma(s) may notice some of these common reactions which can persist for months or years:
- Feeling constantly on edge — like your nervous system is stuck in “high alert,” even when things seem fine
- Getting easily overwhelmed or anxious, especially with situations/people/places that remind you (sometimes subtly) of the past
- Avoiding certain places, conversations, or memories because they feel too uncomfortable or activating
- Strong physical reactions (racing heart, tight chest, nausea, headaches) without a clear medical cause
- Feeling anxious even when life is going well, like your body doesn’t quite trust calm moments
- You’re hard on yourself, holding yourself to very high standards
- Sleep problems, including difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or having vivid or unsettling dreams
- Small setbacks can trigger big emotional reactions — frustration, shame, or self-doubt that feels out of proportion
- Feeling emotionally numb, disconnected, or like you’re just going through the motions
- Difficulty trusting others or letting your guard down in relationships
- Feeling stuck in shame, guilt, or self-blame, even when you logically know it wasn’t your fault
- You struggle with focus, follow-through, or organization, especially when stressed or emotionally triggered
- You replay conversations or mistakes in your head, worrying you did something wrong
- A sense that you should be “over this by now,” but you’re not