Signs of Trauma: What to Look for in a Loved One

Identifying Key Indicators of Trauma

Trauma is a complex psychological and physiological response to stressful or life-threatening events. It can arise from a single occurrence, such as a car accident, or from ongoing adverse experiences, such as consistent physical or emotional abuse. The effects of trauma are not always immediately obvious, and they often build over time. When left untreated, trauma can result in the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which requires professional help to address and treat.

Not everyone responds to trauma in the same manner, though many face physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms. Those who experience stress at a high level are more likely to react more intensely to trauma than those who don’t. Seeing this response is a key indicator that experiencing a stressful event can cause a traumatic reaction.

Physical Manifestations of Trauma

Although many think trauma only affects the mind, it actually takes a toll on the body physically. Common physical symptoms of a trauma response include:

• Unexplained aches and pains: Trauma causes the body to stay in the fight-or-flight response for long periods, resulting in tension of the muscles. This leads to pain around the body, including in the shoulders, back, and joints.
• Fatigue: Thinking about the traumatic event(s) can interfere with sleep by causing insomnia and nightmares, leading to distorted sleep patterns. Fatigue causes physical concerns and interferes with emotional regulation.
• Appetite changes: Digestion is closely linked to mood shifts. Those who have experienced trauma are more likely to develop irritable bowel syndrome as well as issues with diarrhea and constipation.
• Teeth problems: As the body is always in a hypervigilant state, jaw tension and teeth grinding can occur. This puts wear on both the teeth and the bones in the face.

Emotional Symptoms Associated with Trauma

Because trauma is deeply rooted psychologically, emotional symptoms are some of the most prominent. As we mentioned above, sleep disturbances dysregulate emotional responses. A key feeling associated with trauma is guilt and shame. Many blame themselves for the incident that occurred and thus feel negatively about themselves. Self-blame needs to be recognized firsthand to begin healing.

Another emotional response is to shut down and only feel numb. This is a way for the mind to protect itself – instead of feeling negative from the trauma, the person chooses to feel nothing at all. However, this results in a lack of interest in activities and relationships, which furthers feelings of depression.

Heightened sense of awareness can mimic feelings of anxiety. The person feels they are not safe at all times and are constantly on edge. These emotions can intensify if the person is confronted with a trigger, furthering feelings of stress and anxiety.

Behavioral Indicators of Traumatic Stress

Experiencing a traumatic event can alter behaviors in a negative way. Some turn to substances as a way to “feel better” about what they went through. Alcohol and other substances change the way the brain functions, providing a numbing escape from emotions surrounding the trauma. However, as a substance use disorder develops, negative feelings and behaviors will increase.

Triggers can pop up at any moment and cause stress and anxiety. Because of this, the person may avoid certain people or places as a way to reduce contact with these stressors. This can cause complications in their life as they are unable to accomplish tasks such as going to the grocery store or even riding in a car. Avoiding places and not being able to complete daily goals will eventually increase stress levels.

Isolating from family and friends also results in relationship strain. If the trauma occurred during childhood or adolescence, the person may resort to defiant behavior as a way to keep people from knowing what happened to them. Withdrawing from those around them is a common behavioral sign of traumatic stress.

Guidance for Addressing Trauma in Yourself or Others

Recognizing the signs of trauma is only the first step – next involves creating a supportive environment and developing skills to manage emotions. Whether you are experiencing trauma symptoms yourself or seeing them in a loved one, the following strategies can promote healing in a positive way:

1. Consider professional help: A mental health professional trained in trauma-informed care can provide a safe space for confronting your trauma. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and prolonged exposure (PE) are all techniques proven to provide healing for traumatic experiences.
2. Offer a safe and stable environment: Trauma removes the idea of a safe setting, and unpredictability can worsen these feelings. It is important for both the person healing and their caregiver to establish a predictable and safe environment, including consistent routines.
3. Practice self-compassion: Understand that trauma responses are normal reactions to high-stress events. Avoid self-blame and prioritize calm, nonjudgmental care for yourself or your loved one.
4. Establish healthy coping mechanisms: Practice breathing techniques for times of increased stress to help curb anxiety. Implementing activities such as journaling, exercise, and creative expression can help with emotional processing and stress management.
5. Build a support network: Having someone you trust is crucial when times get tough. Choose a family member, friend, or loved one with whom you feel comfortable discussing your trauma and confide in them whenever possible. If a loved one comes to you and wants you to be a part of their support system, make sure to always speak with respect and compassion.
6. Educate yourself and others: Understanding the trauma response and how it affects yourself or your loved one can provide insight into the best techniques for healing. It also reduces stigma and promotes mental well-being.
7. Be patient: Healing from trauma is not a one-size-fits-all path. There will be progress and setbacks, but this does not mean you are broken or something is wrong with you. Having consistent support and understanding will make the most difference over time.

Trauma doesn’t heal overnight; having consistent people in your life will be key to healing. If you don’t have a support system of healthy people around you, don’t worry. This is something a robust treatment program can provide.

Getting Started With Trauma Therapy in Tampa, FL

The first step to healing is to enter a quality trauma therapy program. Through guided sessions, you will be able to face your past in a safe space and learn how to reduce its control over your mind and body. Both individual and group therapy will give you the knowledge needed to move forward into a bright and fulfilling future.

If you or someone you love is looking for trauma therapy, Clean Recovery Centers has you covered. Our dedicated and compassionate team specializes in trauma-informed care, giving you the tools needed to heal from your past. We will be the supportive community you need to find long-term healing. Call us today at (888) 330-2532 to learn more or get started.

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