The Symptoms of Psychological Trauma and How to Find Help

Psychological trauma can interfere with daily activities and lead to mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Knowing the symptoms of psychological trauma can make you aware of when to seek help from a mental health care practitioner.

What is Psychological Trauma?

Psychological trauma is the thoughts, emotions, and behaviors associated with a life-changing, stressful event. This event could be a one-time incident, such as a natural disaster, house fire, or car accident. Psychological trauma can also occur after a long period of stress, such as caring for a terminal loved one or suffering abuse.

The Symptoms of Psychological Trauma

The symptoms of psychological trauma include:

Anger – Unresolved trauma can lead to anger, bitterness, and resentment. Mood swings and irritability are common after trauma. Learning to manage anger is the first step as you work through the effects of trauma.

Fear – Fear and the startle response are common after trauma. You may experience nightmares or sleep disturbances as your mind tries to process events.

Depression – Depression can feel like a darkening cloud hovering over you. It can feel permanent, but it’s important to remember that this persistent sadness is temporary. You may need therapy to help you past the rough obstacles of depression.

Intrusive memories – Intrusive memories and thoughts come out of nowhere and can leave you shaken. In some cases, these flashbacks can feel real with sounds and scents associated with the memory.

Trouble concentrating – After trauma, the brain can undergo changes in structure and functions that make it difficult to concentrate on tasks. You may find you are forgetting more and are unable to focus.

Trouble making decisions – You might second-guess your choices and be unable to commit to decisions. Try not to make any rash decisions or major purchases until you have worked on moving past your trauma.

Lost confidence – Psychological trauma can cause low self-esteem, lost confidence, and a poor sense of self-worth. Rebuilding confidence takes time. Your counselor may suggest setting short-term goals to build feelings of accomplishment.

Headaches – Constant headaches can be caused by tension and stress surrounding the memory of the trauma.

Unexplained stomachaches and body aches – Muscle tension, unexplained stomachaches, heartburn, and body aches are common in people who have lived with chronic stress. The body reacts to the fight-or-flight response, but in the case of trauma, the body gets “stuck” in the cycle.

Avoiding people or locations associated with the trauma – You may avoid people, locations, or situations that remind you of the trauma. This is a coping mechanism, but not necessarily a healthy one, as you should be able to eventually distance yourself from the emotions to continue with daily activities. Counseling can help you learn healthier coping strategies.

Heart palpitations or panic attacks – The sympathetic nervous system goes into overdrive after trauma. You may experience heart palpitations or panic attacks. These can mimic a heart attack. Consult with your physician to rule out any medical conditions.

Some symptoms of psychological trauma can be scary, such as panic attacks. Counseling can help you move past trauma.

Christian Counseling for the Treatment of Psychological Trauma

If you suffer from the symptoms of psychological trauma, reach out for help today. Our representative will connect you to a Christian counselor for an assessment before creating a mental health care plan to help you manage symptoms. Your counselor may offer in-person or virtual sessions to make treatment more accessible.