The term “trauma” has become more widely discussed in recent years, particularly on social media, where there is a growing awareness of its impact. Trauma can take many forms: it may involve a single catastrophic event, such as a car accident or sexual assault, or prolonged exposure to a traumatic environment, like emotional neglect or domestic violence. Even hearing about a traumatic event can lead to what’s known as secondary trauma. Trauma can affect anyone, and people may also be impacted by the trauma experienced by others.
In my practice, I often hear clients express that their trauma is “not big enough.” However, repeated exposure to what is known as “little t trauma”—such as being yelled at or threatened with abandonment—can be just as emotionally harmful—if not more so—than a single, more significant traumatic event (“big T trauma,” such as physical assault) (Copeland, Keeler, Angold, & Costello, 2010; Cloitre et al., 2009).
The Subjectivity of Trauma
Trauma is a deeply personal experience. Different types of trauma can affect people in various ways, and individuals may respond to the same event differently. What may be traumatic for one person might not have the same impact on another. Several factors influence how trauma affects an individual, including the nature of the event, the length and intensity of exposure, personal history, sociocultural influences, and the strength of one’s support system (such as family, friends, and community).
Trauma Symptoms
The symptoms of trauma often stem from the body’s instinctual survival mechanisms, which were once adaptive in the context of the traumatic event. Unfortunately, trauma doesn’t simply end when the event is over—even if you’ve survived it. The lasting effects often resurface unexpectedly in everyday life, sometimes in ways that are difficult to recognize as linked to past experiences. These symptoms can be remembered and experienced through the acronym BASK:
- Behaviour: Reflexive actions such as fleeing, attacking, isolating, or engaging in self-destructive behaviours.
- Affect: Intense emotional reactions, including fear, shame, pain, or numbness.
- Sensory: Physiological sensations, such as changes in heart rate, breathing, or muscle tension.
- Knowledge: Thoughts and beliefs from the traumatic time, such as a constant sense of danger, threat, or humiliation.
Decades of trauma research show that overwhelming experiences are often not recalled as coherent narratives or vivid images. Instead, trauma is frequently remembered through sensory elements—without the words to describe them (Ogden, Minton, & Pain, 2006). This fragmentation can be confusing for survivors. While logically they may understand that the situation has changed and the people involved are different, their bodily and instinctual responses often remain unchanged over time.
Healing from Trauma
Because trauma affects the mind, body, and emotions, effective treatment requires a holistic approach. This approach must address cognition, bodily responses, emotional regulation, and nervous system integration. Some trauma treatments that may be beneficial include:
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
- Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT)
- Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
- Somatic Experiencing
Above all, the therapeutic relationship is crucial in navigating trauma recovery. The trust and safety between you and your therapist create the foundation for true healing to begin.
References
- Cloitre, M., Stolbach, B. C., Herman, J. L., Van der Kolk, B., Pynoos, R., Wang, J., et al. (2009). Developmental approach to complex PTSD: Childhood and adult cumulative trauma as predictors of symptom complexity. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 22, 399–408.
- Copeland, W. E., Keeler, G., Angold, A., & Costello, E. (2010). Posttraumatic stress without trauma in children. American Journal of Psychiatry, 167(9), 1059–1065.
- Ogden, P., Minton, K., & Pain, C. (2006). Trauma and the Body: A Sensorimotor Approach to Psychotherapy. W.W. Norton & Company.
Take the First Step Towards Healing
Trauma is deeply personal, but you don't have to face it alone. Our experienced team of psychiatrists and psychologists is here to help you navigate your journey to recovery with compassionate, evidence-based care. Whether you’re dealing with the aftermath of a single event or the ongoing effects of prolonged trauma, we are ready to support you.
Reach out today to schedule an appointment with one of our experts. Let us guide you towards healing and a brighter future. Contact us to begin your path to recovery.
Siew Choo Ting
Principal Psychologist
Principal Psychologist
