Trauma has been a popular topic lately and ever since the pandemic, people have been more open to therapy and diving deeper into harmful past experiences. Trauma can happen to anyone who has experienced an injury, frightening situation, or painful events. Trauma also impacts you differently depending on whether you have experienced it once, repeatedly, or over time. This can have lasting effects on the way that you function, including your physical, social, emotional, or spiritual well-being.
When we experience trauma, it sets off an “alarm.” This alarm triggers the fight-or-flight response in our body and mind. This heightened state of arousal makes it difficult to feel calm and can be easily reactivated in later situations. The fight or flight response prepares your body to either stay and face the threat or run away to safety. You can probably think of a time when you experienced this response. You may have experienced your heart racing, fast-paced breathing, and even trembling and feeling tense.
But a person’s response to a stressful situation varies and others may have less obvious responses. Some common reactions to trauma are as follows:
- Re-experiencing the trauma (flashbacks, nightmares, external triggers).
- Avoidance of trauma reminders (avoiding situations or people).
- Negative thoughts or feelings (the way you think about yourself and others).
- Hyperarousal (anxious, irritable).
Processing your trauma with a licensed professional will help you understand your triggers, and awareness of the way your body reacts and identifies emotions. It is difficult to change negative cycles and reactions if you don’t understand where they’re coming from and how they affect you. It doesn’t matter how long ago your traumatic experience occurred it’s never too late to seek help. When you understand how trauma influences the way you perceive the world and those around you, it will help you live a healthier life.
Start your new year on the right path to healing. Happy Holidays to all.
Hillary Aponte-Chimelis
H. Aponte-Chimelis Counseling LLC
