Childhood trauma series (1/5):
Many of my clients come to me knowing something was off in their childhood. But don't know how to pinpoint it or even what it was. Some of them have a sense of loneliness while others know they are emotionally disconnected from their families.
I have other clients who know exactly what their childhood trauma was. It is clear to them.
This five-part blog series will explore things like relational trauma, childhood trauma, and The Adverse Childhood Experiences or "ACEs".
In this first blog, we are going to discuss the difference between stress and trauma. It is important to know the differences as this will lay a good foundation for the next blog post.
Experiencing stress and challenges is a natural part of life. Everyone goes through ups and downs, and these experiences can help us grow and become stronger. Yet, not all stressful experiences are the same. Some events can be so overwhelming that they can lead to lasting emotional and psychological damage. This is known as trauma.
It's important to understand the difference between stress and trauma so that you can identify when you or someone you know may need help.
Stressful events are typically situational and are caused by external factors such as a heavy workload, financial pressures, or relationship issues. While stressful events can cause discomfort and distress, they are usually temporary and can be managed with self-care, healthy coping mechanisms, and time.
Traumatic events, on the other hand, can be more long-lasting and can result from a range of experiences, such as physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, domestic violence, natural disasters, or serious accidents. Traumatic events can have a profound impact on an individual's mental and emotional well-being, leaving them with symptoms such as flashbacks, hypervigilance, nightmares, and difficulty with daily functioning.
It's important to note that trauma is a personal experience and can affect individuals in different ways. What may be traumatic for one person may not be traumatic for another. It's also possible for an event that was initially perceived as stressful to develop into a traumatic experience, especially if the person feels overwhelmed or powerless.
While trauma can be debilitating, it's important to recognize that people who have experienced trauma can also demonstrate incredible strength and resilience. Many survivors of trauma find ways to cope and thrive despite their experiences. I am always honored and in awe of my clients and their strength.
If you or someone you know has experienced a traumatic event, it's important to seek support and help from a licensed therapist or mental health professional. Therapy can be a valuable tool for trauma survivors to explore their experiences, develop coping mechanisms, and cultivate their resilience. With the right support, trauma survivors can learn to heal, grow, and find strength and resilience within themselves.
Hi, I am Kristi. A trauma therapist in Ogden, Utah. I specialize in EMDR therapy, Brainspotting therapy, and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy. If you are in need of a trauma counselor reach out today.
