Most people will experience trauma in their lifetime whether it’s a car accident, abuse or neglect, the sudden death of a loved one, a violent criminal act, exposure to the violence of war, or a natural disaster. Additionally, trauma, whether something done to you or something you were involved in, makes it difficult to manage your emotions and to engage in relationships with others.
The impact of trauma affects how people behave, think, and feel about themselves. Common symptoms in traumatized individuals can include:
- nightmares
- flashbacks
- anxiety and/or depression
- feelings of guilt and shame
- difficulty trusting and getting close to others