So far we've reviewed the different types of trauma and what happens in the brain during traumatic event(s). Now we'll review the symptoms of trauma. When we're discussing trauma symptoms it's helpful to think of responses to trauma on a spectrum. The less severe end of the spectrum can include mild symptoms that do not impair functionality and the other end of the spectrum can encompass debilitating symptoms that make it difficult to get through most days. The more severe end of the spectrum is likely where one may meet diagnostic criteria for trauma spectrum related disorder(s). I'm not going to go in depth on the disorder side of things in this post, however, if you feel that you are experiencing significant symptoms, I recommend speaking to a mental health professional for a proper evaluation. I also want to emphasize that trauma related disorders are often treatable and most people who receive proper treatment do not meet criteria for the disorders once they have processed through their trauma.
There are many factors that influence whether or not a person has mild, medium, or severe symptomology. Things to consider include the severity of the trauma itself, if there have been multiple traumatic events, natural resiliency, coping mechanisms, and support.
When discussing symptomology, we always want to assess the duration, frequency, and intensity of each symptom. Symptoms can appear within days of the trauma and can last years. They may be present some days out of a given week and subside other days, and the symptoms may be mild or extremely intense.
Below is a list of the most common symptoms broken into categories including: physical, cognitive, psychological and behavioral effects.
Physical
feeling on edge
jumpy
sleeping issues
decrease or increase in appetite
body pain
hyperarousal
fatigue
rapid heart rate
tight chest
difficulty breathing
body shakes
headaches
dizziness
Cognitve
flashback memories of traumatic event
nightmares
fear that the same event or similar event will happen again
mind going empty or blank
difficulty remembering things
negative or stuck thinking patterns about the trauma
difficulty concentrating
disorientation
Psychological
sadness or depression
guilt/shame
emotional numbness
mood swings/ irritability
anger
anxiety
trying to turn off all emotions
daydreaming (in another world)
denial
loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy
distancing from others
Behavioral
avoiding people, places, or situations that remind you of the traumatic event
isolating from people
decreased performance in work/school
loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy
It's important to note that these symptoms can also be symptoms of a wide range of other mental health struggles, physical diagnosises, food intolerances, and life stressors. If experiencing symptoms of any kind, it's important to seek professional medical and/or mental health consultation.
Stay tuned for the next blog post on how to cope with these trauma symptoms. Feel free to reach out if you have any specific questions on brain health or topics you would like me to cover.
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