Trauma

About Trauma

By Claigh H. Jensen LDS Family Services https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/ensign/2008/02/about-trauma?lang=eng 

People may experience circumstances so distressing that normal coping skills are not adequate. Such incidents might include abandonment, abuse, war, environmental disaster, an untimely death, severe illness, and many others. 

Research suggests that: an estimated 70 percent of adults in the United States have experienced a traumatic event at least once in their lives, and up to 20 percent of these people later develop posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). An estimated 5 percent of Americans—more than 13 million people—have PTSD at any given time.

While no one is excluded from the trials and sufferings of this life, people may believe if they are strong enough or faithful enough, they should be able to move on with their lives after a traumatic event. Most people who experience trauma are able to return to leading a normal life, but they typically go through an adjustment period first.

The stress caused by trauma can affect all aspects of a person’s life, including mental, emotional, and physical well-being. It is important to tell your doctor of any traumatic events you or your loved ones may have experienced. The following may be symptoms of trauma:

• Depression

• Anxiety

• Flashbacks

• Nightmares or frightening thoughts, especially during exposure to events or objects reminiscent of the trauma

• Emotional numbness

• Sleep disturbances

• Irritability or outbursts of anger

• Intense guilt

• Hypervigilance—being too watchful or unnecessarily fearful

• Clinginess

• Withdrawal

• Avoidance of reminders of the ordeal

• Headaches

• Gastrointestinal distress

• Immune system problems

• Dizziness

• Chest pain

• Discomfort in other parts of the body

"Research has found that after trauma, people often experience what has been labeled “post-traumatic growth.” Post-traumatic growth is demonstrated by a person finding increased strength after a traumatic experience, like improved relationships, greater appreciation for life or certain qualities of life, or an increased awareness of possibilities of life." https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/liahona/2023/09/06-after-trauma-building-resilience-and-embracing-healing

Self-Care

Self-care is not a luxury, but a necessity for healing. Small daily acts of kindness to yourself can make a difference in moments of deep distress. Be patient and compassionate with yourself as you navigate this difficult journey. 

• Spend extra time together. Gathering as a family away from the demands of work, school, and other responsibilities communicates love, commitment, and priority. Simple things such as smiles and hugs give assurance and are helpful when breaking through a sense of isolation.

• Be patient and gentle. Encourage, but do not rush, the healing process.

• Use good judgment when seeking professional help. Family Services and other professional resources may help you or your loved one successfully work through the experience to a higher level of functioning. 

• Understand that everyone experiences traumatic events differently. In fact, some might experience an event as traumatic, while others may have only felt uncomfortable. For this reason, remember not to compare your experience to others’ or use your experience as the standard experience. https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/liahona/2023/09/06-after-trauma-building-resilience-and-embracing-healing 

More Self-Care Ideas 

Discussion

• Have you felt the effects of trauma? If so, in what ways?

• What are some things that have helped you cope with effects of trauma?

• Have you experienced anything related to post-traumatic growth?