Trauma
WHAT IS TRAUMA?
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Trauma is an experience that threatens an individual’s safety or well-being, or that of a loved one. It can stem from events such as physical abuse, the loss of a parent, witnessing domestic violence, abandonment, natural disasters, war, community violence, or serious medical conditions. Trauma can take various forms, including single-event trauma, complex trauma, developmental trauma, historical trauma, and intergenerational trauma.
Exposure to trauma can significantly impact brain development, leading to structural and hormonal changes that may result in long-term physical and mental health challenges. When stress and trauma are persistent, the brain adapts in ways that can hinder learning, socialization, and emotional regulation. Prolonged exposure to toxic stress during childhood, if left unaddressed, can have lasting developmental effects well into adulthood. However, with appropriate intervention and support, individuals can work through the effects of trauma and build resilience.
The Impact of Psychological Trauma on Health and Well-Being
Psychological trauma is a significant public health concern that affects individuals, families, and communities across Canada. It places a substantial burden on healthcare and human service systems, impacting not only mental health but also physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Trauma is a complex issue that spans across all health sectors, including primary care, mental health, and social services.
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Given its profound impact on health outcomes, it is essential for all healthcare and human service providers to have a foundational understanding of trauma. Recognizing trauma symptoms and understanding their role in supporting recovery can significantly improve care and foster healing. Adopting trauma-informed approaches benefits both service providers and the individuals they support, promoting more compassionate, effective, and holistic care.
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Understanding Trauma Responses
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Responses to trauma can vary widely from person to person, ranging from minor disruptions in daily life to severe, debilitating effects. Individuals may experience a range of emotional and psychological reactions, including anxiety, fear, shock, shame, emotional numbness, disconnection, intrusive thoughts, and feelings of helplessness or powerlessness.
Trauma can significantly impact a person’s sense of safety, identity, and ability to manage emotions and relationships. It often leads to physiological changes that result in emotional dysregulation—difficulty in controlling reactions and behaviours. This imbalance in the body can manifest as:
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Hyperarousal and Hypervigilance: A heightened state of alertness where an individual may overreact to everyday situations.
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Dissociation: A sense of emotional numbness and detachment, even in stressful or dangerous situations.
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