What Is Trauma? If you are involved or witness a traumatic event, it is common to feel distressed, upset or confused afterwards. These feelings may not emerge straight away. These feelings become a problem, and require you to seek help, when they stop you leading your life as you want to. Not everyone who experiences a traumatic event has difficulties, but it is important to remember to seek help if you do. Types of trauma Serious accident such as a car crash An event where you fear for your life Physical and/or sexual assault Abuse in childhood Extreme violence or seeing people hurt A natural disaster such as flood, or earthquake It is important to remember that experiencing trauma is not your fault. Neither are the emotions you may feel afterwards. You can help change these feelings through coping strategies, self-care and treatment.
Symptoms of Trauma Re-living the trauma Vivid flashbacks Intrusive thoughts and images Nightmares Distress at reminders of the trauma Pain Sweating
Nausea Shaking Alertness, feeling on edge Easily upset or angry Extreme alertness Anxiety Lack of concentration Easily startled Avoiding feelings or memories Keeping busy Avoiding situations that remind you of the trauma Feeling numb Unable to express affection Using drugs / alcohol Remember that experiencing trauma is not your fault. Neither are the emotions you may feel afterwards.
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