Understanding Trauma

Trauma is an emotional and physical response to one or more physically harmful or life-threatening events with lasting adverse effects on one’s mental and physical well-being. Traumatic experiences can vary widely and may include physical or sexual abuse, natural disasters, accidents, combat, or witnessing violence. Trauma can have profound effects on a person’s mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

Types of Trauma

There are different types of trauma, each with its own unique characteristics and impact on individuals. Here are some common types of trauma:

Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder

Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder is an emotional disorder which begins in childhood, it refers to social neglect during childhood (a lack of adequate caregiving) and is similar to Reactive Attachment Disorder but presents with externalizing behavior and disinhibition rather than internalizing and withdrawn behavior with depressive symptoms.

Reactive Attachment Disorder

Reactive Attachment Disorder can be caused by social neglect during childhood (meaning a lack of adequate caregiving). Reactive Attachment Disorder presents externalizing behavior and a lack of inhibitions in behavior, rather the internalizing, withdrawn behavior and depressive symptoms.

Acute Stress Disorder

Acute Stress Disorder develops after exposure to one or more traumatic events, e.g., exposure to war (both civilians and military personnel), rape or sexual violence, physical attack, mugging, childhood physical or sexual violence, kidnapping or being taken hostage, terrorist attacks, torture, nature disasters and severe accidents. Many other causes of trauma are possible.

Adjustment Disorders

Adjustment disorder is a maladaptive reaction to identifiable psychosocial stressor(s) or life change(s) characterized by preoccupation with the stressor and failure to adapt. The failure to adapt may be manifested by a range of symptoms that interfere with everyday functioning, such as difficulties concentrating or sleep disturbance. Symptoms of anxiety, depression, and impulse control or conduct problems are commonly present and may be the presenting feature.

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Post-traumatic stress involves an extreme distress and disruption of daily living that happens after exposure to a traumatic event. PTSD symptoms present as intense intrusive thoughts, avoidance of thoughts and behaviors, negative changes in thoughts and mood, changes in arousal and reactivity, dissociation, and sometimes psychotic symptoms.

Complex Trauma

Complex trauma typically occurs during childhood and involves multiple traumatic experiences, often within the context of an abusive or neglectful relationship. Complex trauma can disrupt healthy development and significantly impact a person’s sense of self and relationships.

Developmental Trauma

Developmental trauma refers to the impact of early-life trauma on an individual’s development and functioning. It can result from neglect, abuse, or unstable environments during critical periods of childhood. Developmental trauma can have lifelong effects on mental health and overall well-being.