Impact of Trauma

Trauma is an emotional response to a situation in which a person experiences something that is frightening, overwhelming or entails a sense of loss of control. Following a criminal act or traumatic incident, an individual can go through a difficult adjustment period as their sense of safety and security is affected. Others such as a partner, family or friends may also experience this emotional response.   

Although these thoughts and feelings are upsetting, it is important to remember that they are common reactions to trauma and/or victimization. These reactions can last for several hours, days, weeks, months or even years depending on the individual and the circumstances that they are faced with.

Common reactions may include:

Behavioural

• Avoidance
• Withdrawn or Disengaged
• Substance Misuse
• Engaging in Arguments
• Lacking Trust
• Trouble Communicating
• Not Wanting to be Alone

Cognitive

• Intrusive Thoughts
• Hypervigilance
• Memory Loss
• Lack of Concentration
• Nightmares
• Flashbacks
• Confusion

Emotional

• Fear, Anger, Resentful
• Anxious, Violated, Vulnerable or Embarassed 
• Feeling Alone, Empty,  Overwhelmed or Guilty
• Disbelief, Detached or Disconnected
• Sad, Grief 

Physical

• Sleep Disturbances
• Appetite Changes
• Headaches or Dizziness
• Unexplained Body Pain
• Panic Attacks or Nausea
• Trembling & Sweating
• Increased Heart Rate