What is Trauma?
“Trauma isn’t what happens to you; trauma is what happens inside of you as a result of what happens to you.”
- Dr. Gabor Maté
When you see or experience something scary, shocking, or harmful it may throw you off balance and overwhelm your ability to cope. Events that are physically or emotionally harmful may leave you feeling threatened and out of control. You may struggle to make sense of what happened for a long time and it can have lasting effects on your well-being. This experience is known as trauma.
Our experiences live within us, shaping how we think, feel, and respond to the world. By gently peeling back the layers, we can begin to understand what's beneath the surface.
Our experiences live within us, shaping how we think, feel, and respond to the world. By gently peeling back the layers, we can begin to understand what's beneath the surface.
When to Reach Out for Help You don’t have to do this alone.
If you’re coping with the effects of trauma, having someone to support you through difficult times can make a meaningful difference. Talking to a trusted friend or loved one is often a good place to start. If you find you need more support, there are therapists and programs that help people heal from trauma.
If you choose to seek professional help, your provider may suggest a diagnosis. This is a normal part of the process and nothing to be concerned about. A diagnosis involves identifying a condition or disorder based on the signs and symptoms you are experiencing. It helps your provider create a personalized plan for healing, much like diagnosing a physical health condition.
If you need someone to talk to immediately, the 988 Lifeline is free and confidential.