Understanding Trauma: Its Impact and Pathways to Healing
Join Jessica in this blog post exploring and understanding trauma. In this, we will be discussing the concept of trauma, exploring what is trauma, the different types of trauma, and how it impacts the mind and body. Jessica practices from a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive framework; if this blog speaks to you and you want to process it more, please reach out to our team today.
What is Trauma?
Trauma is an experience/situation that can profoundly shape our lives, leaving scars that affect our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Often, when people think of trauma, they envision grandiose, life-threatening events like car accidents, abuse, or natural disasters. While these are certainly traumatic experiences and not to be diminished, trauma can also result from less visible or more subtle events, such as prolonged stress, difficult relationships, or unmet emotional needs. Understanding trauma, the impact it has, and how we can heal from it; is essential for fostering greater resilience in our lives.
In its most simplest form, trauma is the response to an event, or series of events, that overwhelms a person’s ability to cope or process the experience. Trauma can range from acute events, to more chronic complex experiences. Most importantly, when talking about trauma; it is important to remember that trauma is subjective: what is traumatic for one person might not be for another.
What are the types of trauma?
Trauma can be categorized into several types:
Acute Trauma – This type of trauma results from a single, overwhelming event, such as a car accident, loss of a loved one, or a natural disaster. While the effects can be severe, they may be temporary if processed with the right supports and time.
Chronic Trauma – Prolonged or repeated exposure to stress or traumatic events, such as ongoing abuse or consistent exposure to harm, leads to chronic trauma. Over time, the emotional, psychological, and physical toll can be profound.
Complex Trauma – This is the exposure to multiple, often personal traumatic events. Complex trauma typically stems from repeated abuse or neglect during childhood, causing long-lasting effects on emotional regulation, self-esteem, and relationships.
Developmental Trauma – Often related to childhood abuse, neglect, or abandonment, this form of trauma typically can disrupt emotional and psychological development. This type of trauma can impact one’s sense of self and attachment to others.
Vicarious or Secondary Trauma – This occurs when someone witnesses or hears about another person's trauma, often leading to emotional distress or PTSD-like symptoms.
How Trauma Affects the Mind and Body
Trauma doesn’t just affect our emotions or thoughts — it alters the way our bodies respond to the world around us. When we experience trauma, the brain’s fear center, known as the amygdala also known as the brains “smoke detector”, is activated. It releases stress hormones, preparing the body for a "fight or flight" response. This is a survival mechanism designed to help us deal with immediate danger. However, when trauma is unresolved, these stress responses can become chronic, leaving the body in a constant state of alertness.
To Conclude,
Trauma is a deeply personal experience, and its effects can last long after the event itself. Whether it’s a single life-altering event or the accumulation of many small, stressful experiences, trauma leaves an indelible mark on our minds and bodies. Understanding the nature of trauma, its impact, and the pathways to healing can help individuals move from a place of pain to a place of recovery.
This is a reminder, that blog posts do not replace therapy and are here for educational purposes. If you are needing/wanting further support with Maywood Counselling, you can book your free consultation here and discuss how our team can support you.
Jessica Pacheco, MSW, RSW
Maywood Counselling