Trauma affects everyone differently, but understanding and recognising the natural human responses to traumatic experiences is crucial in beginning a journey towards healing and recovery.
We know that not everyone who has lived through traumatic experiences has trauma. And we know that some people might not like to use the word “trauma” to describe how they are feeling. But as you read about the natural response to trauma, you might find information that is still helpful for your own wellbeing, or the wellbeing of your families, friends and loved ones.
The Natural Response to Trauma
When faced with extreme danger, the human body instinctively engages in the “fight/flight/freeze” response.
Initially, this crucial survival mechanism may help us feel focused and determined to escape a threat or find safety, but the experience can have lasting effects that often only surface after the danger has passed.
The ongoing effect of trauma is sometimes called Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Common Reactions to Trauma and Stress in Adults
Adults experiencing trauma may exhibit a range of symptoms, which can be categorised into several key responses:
1. Re-experiencing Trauma:
- Unexpected and distressing memories of the events
- Nightmares and intense fear related to reminders of the trauma
- Physical reactions such as nausea, sweating, dry mouth, trembling, a racing heart, an urge to run or freeze
2. Avoidance:
- An urge to avoid discussions or thoughts about the traumatic events, including keeping busy to avoid memories
- Staying away from places or people that remind you of what happened
- Emotional numbness or detachment, memory loss
- Wanting to be alone
3. Hyperarousal:
- Feeling on edge, easily startled, or constantly on guard and looking for danger
- Experiencing outbursts of anger, irritability, or an inability to relax and sit still
- Having difficulty sleeping or relaxing
- Physical symptoms like dizziness, headaches or unexplained body pain
4. Changes in Perception:
- Altered feelings about oneself and the world
- Difficulty in maintaining relationships and a lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities
- Persistent strong emotions of despair, guilt, or shame
- Thoughts of harming yourself or others
Understanding and Coping with Trauma
Recognising these symptoms is the first step towards healing. Here are several strategies that can aid in managing the effects of trauma:
Remember:
With time and support, it is possible to not only recover but to thrive, finding new meaning and joy in life.
Many survivors report unexpected positive gains despite their difficult experiences. They describe feeling strong, self-reliant, enjoying deeper relationships, wisdom and appreciation for life. They report feeling more resilience to stress, and a strengthening of their faith or life purpose.
These positive responses, despite the suffering endured, enable many survivors to create rich and deeply meaningful lives in Australia.
While the experience of trauma is deeply personal and varied, it is not a path you must walk alone. Contact QPASTT to explore how we can support your journey to recovery.
