Signs of Trauma

When we experience trauma, it is helpful to remember that we are under extreme stress. Because of the trauma and stress, our brain puts us into survival mode (fight-flight). This helps keep us alive but can keep us from recognizing the signs of trauma and recover. Most people experience powerful emotional and physical responses right after a traumatic event. In many cases, they can experience them for months afterward. The first and long-term signs of trauma after a traumatic event can differ based on what we’ve experienced. Here are some immediate and long-term signs of trauma, below, to help you recognize them.

Immediate Signs of Trauma (less than 3 months after event)

  • Feeling numb or like nothing is real
  • Problems focusing or feeling confused
  • Easily startled or scared
  • Intense anger or sadness
  • Heart racing when thinking about the event
  • Trouble sleeping or having nightmares about the disaster
  • Headaches and/or fatigue
  • Feeling worried or fearful
  • Digestive problems, like upset stomach, nausea, or diarrhea

Long-term Signs of Trauma (more than 3 months after event)

  • Feeling irritable or bitter
  • Difficulty thinking or making decisions
  • Socially isolating from family or friends
  • Avoiding places or things that bring back painful memories of the event
  • Easily startled or scared by certain sights or sounds
  • Problems completing work tasks
  • Recurrent thoughts about the disaster or future disasters
  • Difficulty sleeping, unable to sleep, or sleeping too much
  • Fatigue
  • Worrying or fearful about future disasters
  • Digestive problems
  • Intense grief for weeks and months

References:

National Child Traumatic Stress Network. (2006). Psychological First Aid Field Operations Guide 2nd Edition. Rockville, MD: National Child Traumatic Stress Network

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2014). SAMHSA's Concept of Trauma and Guidance for a Trauma-Informed Approach. https://store.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/d7/priv/sma14-4884.pdf

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2022). Coping Tips for Traumatic Events and Disasters. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration. https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/disaster-distress-helpline/coping-tips

Source: Paul Norrod, DrPH, RN, Extension specialist for Rural Health and Farm Safety

Social media post: After a traumatic event, we are under so much stress that we might not recognize the signs of trauma and therefore recover. Read about the immediate and long-term signs of trauma so you’ll more easily recognize them when they happen to you or your loved ones.