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What is Trauma?
Bessel van der Kolk, author of The Body Keeps the Score, writes: “Trauma results in a fundamental reorganization of the way mind and brain manage perceptions. It changes not only how we think and what we think about, but also our very capacity to think. For real change to take place, the body needs to learn that the danger has passed and to live in the reality of the present… To understand trauma has led us to think differently not only about the structure of the mind but also about the processes by which it heals.”
Trauma is a deeply distressing or overwhelming event that significantly affects an individual’s physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. It can be categorized into three main types:
- Acute trauma: A single, unexpected stressful event.
- Chronic trauma: Repeated and prolonged exposure to stressful events.
- Complex trauma: Multiple traumatic events over time, creating a unique cluster of symptoms affecting both mind and body.
Understanding these distinctions is crucial for clinicians to provide effective, compassionate, and personalized treatment. Trauma responses vary widely based on factors such as biological predisposition, developmental stage at the time of trauma, severity of the experience, social context before and after the event, and other life circumstances. These factors can either intensify or lessen an individual's reaction to trauma.
A comprehensive approach requires examining not just the traumatic event itself but also its impact on the individual. Many people seeking help struggle to understand their symptoms, which often overlap with mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, and social withdrawal.
In an age of constant information—and misinformation—defining trauma accurately remains essential. Advancing evidence-based research enhances our understanding and ensures that trauma survivors receive the highest standard of care. The ultimate goal is to create a safe, empowering space where individuals can heal and move forward mentally, emotionally, and physically.
Please stay tuned as more information and specific treatments for trauma will follow this post.
