The experience of trauma is unique for everyone. Some people have different types of trauma, like acute, chronic, or complex. Others have a disorder, like Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and they may have different ways of experiencing their trauma. Although each person’s experience and treatment of their trauma may be different, there are some commonalities in the expression of trauma. Six common signs of trauma include:
Hyper Awareness of Surroundings
- Following a traumatic experience or past, a person may be sensitive to their needs for safety and are hyper-aware of their surroundings
- This sensitivity may be due to their need to be “on-guard” and look out for danger in most settings, especially unfamiliar and new places
Poor Memory
- Trauma affects the way a person’s brain functions
- Poor memory may be the result of a traumatic experience, as the brain needs time to heal to restore optimal functioning
Poor Motor Skills
- Trauma affects the central nervous system and a person may struggle with feeling “jumpy” or “on-edge”
- Poor motor skills may be due to the experience of tremors or “shakiness” following trauma
Sensitivity to Sound
- Trauma can result in sensitivity to sounds, especially loud or unexpected sounds
- A person may also be overwhelmed by noisy environments
Anger
- Following trauma, a person may struggle to manage their anger
- They may be “set-off” easily due to feeling threatened or feeling startled
Little to No Facial Expressions
- They may have a difficult time expressing themselves properly
- Trauma sufferers may have a “flat affect” or “blank expression”
Trauma and recovery can be a unique experience for those suffering from the effects of a distressing or dangerous event. While each person’s traumatic experience may be unique, there are some common signs of trauma. This is not an exhaustive list of trauma signs, nor are these characteristics unique to those suffering trauma. Some signs of trauma may include hyper-awareness, poor memory, poor motor skills, sensitivity to sound, anger, and little to no facial expressions. If you or a loved one are noticing these signs, you may have trauma in your background. Recovery from trauma is possible and you can heal from your pain. Trauma can have lasting effects on our response to the environment due to changes in brain functioning. These effects are not permanent and you can heal from them! You may benefit from healing in a safe, supportive environment like The Guest House. Call us today at (855) 483-7800 for more information.