Trauma is a psychological and emotional response to an event or series of events that are deeply distressing, overwhelming or harmful.

It can result from a single incident—like a car accident or assault—or from prolonged exposure to adverse experiences, such as abuse, neglect or violence.

Trauma can be deeply disruptive, and while some people recover naturally over time, others need professional support to heal effectively.

When to consider therapy:

• Intrusive Symptoms: Flashbacks, nightmares, or recurring, unwanted thoughts about the event.
• Avoidance: You actively avoid people, places, or situations that remind you of the trauma.
• Emotional Numbness or Detachment: Feeling disconnected from others, difficulty experiencing positive emotions, or a sense of emptiness.
• Hyperarousal: Being constantly on edge, easily startled, experiencing irritability, anger, or trouble sleeping.
• Negative Thoughts and Mood Changes: Persistent guilt, shame, hopelessness, or low self-worth.
• Substance Use or Risky Behavior: Using drugs, alcohol, or other behaviors to cope with emotional pain.
• Difficulty Functioning: Trouble at work, school, or in relationships due to trauma-related symptoms.
• Physical Symptoms Without Clear Cause: Chronic pain, headaches, or gastrointestinal issues that may be linked to unresolved trauma.