What it’s not: It’s not being upset; Its not being very upset; Its not being very upset over a long period of time.
So what is it? Trauma occurs when the brain perceives that there is life-threatening danger and the individual is helpless to do anything about it. The brain generates an imperative to fight or run away, - the fight or flight mechanism, together with the chemicals which flood the body to enable the individual to fight or run away but the individual remains helpless. This experience roots itself in the mind but is held in the body giving rise to symptoms both physical and emotional.
What are the symptoms of trauma?
Flashbacks
Blanks in memory
Hypervigilance and mistrust
Insomnia
Anxiety/Panic
Decreased ability to concentrate
Feeling unreal
Shame and worthlessness
Numbing
Hopelessness and depression
Pain such as migraine
Self-harm or other self-destructive behaviour, addiction
Loss of a sense of self.
Triggering:
What it’s not: Triggering is not being reminded of an upsetting event.
Triggering happens when something in the environment (quite often not consciously recognised) duplicates some aspect of the traumatic event causing some or all of the trauma symptoms.
Symptoms can persist for years and can be difficult to diagnose and slow to respond to therapy. Sufferers can be slow to seek help because of feelings of shame and worthlessness and may find it difficult to respond to and be transparent with the therapist. A good relationship with a therapist who understands trauma is essential. A therapist with a good understanding of trauma will give you the space to take your time until you feel comfortable and begin by working on stabilizing symptoms before moving forward.