There are no standard or “normal” ways of responding to trauma. Instead there are a wide range of reactions, physical and emotional. However you respond to a trauma, then that is normal for you. It is not right or wrong. It is just your response. Below are some of the more common symptoms exhibited by those who have experienced trauma.
Some Physical Symptoms of Trauma
• Difficulty concentrating and focusing.
• Fatigue.
• Edginess and agitation.
• Startled easily.
• Aches and pains, not easily explained.
• Elevated heart rate.
• Sleep disorders – nightmares.
• Overeating – weight gain or loss.
• Avoids physical contact with others - not a hugger.
• Needs too much physical attention.
• Medicates through the use of substances and behaviors.
Some Emotional and Psychological Symptoms of Trauma
• Numb and/or emotionally blunted.
• Filled with abnormal fear and apprehension of the unknown.
• Anxious. (Maybe even clinically)
• Poor ability to focus or concentrate.
• Filled with guilt, shame, self-blame.
• Self-loathing.
• Sad or hopeless feelings.
• Angry, or irritable.
• Easily agitated or have mood swings.
• Walks around in a state of shock, or disbelief.
• Takes too much responsibility for the trauma or not enough.
• Denial of issues.
• Physical aches and pains with no physical source.
• Disconnected from family, friends, and/or society.
• Not willing to express beliefs or extremely vociferous about them.
• Isolates.