Our most straightforward definition of "trauma" - literally means wound, shock, or injury. Psychological trauma is a person's experience of emotional distress resulting from an event that overwhelms one's capacity to cope. The precipitating event may be a one-time occurrence (i.e., an assault or accident) or a series of occurrences (i.e., childhood neglect or abusive relationships) perceived as seriously harmful or life-threatening to oneself or loved ones. People process experiences differently, and not everyone has the same reaction to any event; what one person experiences as trauma may not cause distress for another.
For example, two people may get into a car accident. One person might drive away while the other person may never drive again.
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Trauma
Trauma
What is TRAUMA?
What is GENERATIONAL TRAUMA?
Generational trauma, also known as intergenerational trauma, refers to the passing down of trauma-related stress, behaviors, and emotional patterns from one generation to the next. Families and communities who have experienced significant adversity—such as abuse, neglect, discrimination, war, or displacement—may unknowingly carry the effects of that trauma forward.
Even if you didn't experience the original trauma yourself, its impact can show up in:
- Emotional Patterns – Persistent anxiety, feelings of shame, or difficulty expressing emotions
- Relationships – Struggles with trust, fear of abandonment, or repeating unhealthy relationship dynamics
- Coping Strategies – Numbing emotions, overworking, perfectionism, or substance use
- Family Communication – Avoiding difficult topics, minimizing emotions, or feeling responsible for others' pain
How DOES TRAUMA AFFECT someone?
Trauma can have both immediate and long-term effects on a person's mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Common responses include:
| Category | Examples |
| Feeling on Edge | Easily startled, trouble relaxing, always "on guard," feeling tense or restless |
| Emotional Ups & Downs | Feeling irritable, quick to anger, overwhelmed by emotions, or unexpectedly shutting down |
| Struggles with Trust | Feeling distant from others, second-guessing people's intentions, difficulty opening up |
| Overthinking & Self-Doubt | Replaying past events, overanalyzing conversations, questioning self-worth, low self-esteem, people-pleasing |
| Avoidance & Distraction | Avoiding certain places or topics, staying overly busy, binge-watching TV, or scrolling endlessly to "numb out" |
| Physical Stress | Unexplained headaches, stomach issues, muscle tension, or chronic fatigue, weakened immune system |
| Sense of Disconnection | Feeling "out of it," struggling to feel joy, or wondering why things don't feel as meaningful as they used to |
How do we MEASURE TRAUMA in someone?
The Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Questionnaire is a widely used first-line tool for assessing exposure to traumatic or adverse experiences prior to age 18. It is a 10-item screening tool which anyone can access online. Research over the past 30 years has found a strong link between childhood adversity and long-term physical and mental health risks.
Other ways that we measure how traumatic experiences impact an individual include clinical interviews in therapy where we talk about experiences, reactions, and symptoms (when an individual is ready). Clinicians can also use screening tools and standardized questionnaires for adults.
What happens if I just AVOID MY TRAUMA?
Avoidance is a common response to trauma, but it often makes symptoms worse over time. Unprocessed trauma can lead to chronic stress, emotional numbness, strained relationships, and unhealthy coping mechanisms like substance use. Seeking support in a safe and structured environment allows healing to begin.
Is there HOPE for recovery?
Absolutely! Healing from trauma is possible. With the right support, individuals can regain a sense of safety, build resilience, and develop healthier coping strategies. Trauma therapy, such as EMDR, cognitive processing therapy (CPT), or prolonged exposure therapy can help individuals process past experiences and move forward with greater confidence and peace.
What is TRAUMA-INFORMED CARE?
Trauma-informed care is an approach that recognizes the widespread impact of trauma and prioritizes safety, trust, and empowerment. In a trauma-informed therapy setting, you can expect:
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• A compassionate and non-judgmental environment.
• A focus on collaboration and choice in treatment.
• Awareness of how past trauma affects present experiences.
• Therapeutic techniques that promote healing at your own pace.
• Advocacy for safety and accommodations in other settings if needed.