We notice our own trauma symptoms like high anxiety, high startle response (jumpy and hyper alert), and a sense of terror that accompanies us—an unwanted companion. Terror can transverse our bodies so that we have stomach and head aches, as well as other somatic (physical) symptoms that drain our energy and weaken our immune system. […]

Sometimes others notice our trauma symptoms that we aren’t aware of. They may point out that we are staring into space, not answering a question, or looking sad. Trauma can involve dissociation in which we are not always aware of our environment. Perhaps anxiety and fear are crowding our minds, leaving us looking inward and

As a trauma expert, I believe that trying to be prepared for traumatic events can be really helpful if these events occur. A fire extinguisher is useful for a small, starting stove fire or things like that. It’s always smart to call for help as well. Reading directions and making sure people all around know

Choking is frightening! Trying to be prepared for this traumatic experience, in yourself or others, could include buying a choking rescue device and keep it in a well known place. A mask is put over the mouth and suction is used to bring up that which is stuck. Reading directions and helping family and friends

Trauma was experienced by many people in the audience at the recent journalist annual dinner! Kerry Kennedy explained during an interview that she felt frozen, unable to move her body. Feeling frozen is a terrible trauma symptom. While taking cover under tables, they received no updates or instructions for a long period of time. Their

Some people try to shut out traumatic events to protect themselves or loved ones. But what about the horror that creeps under and through fences, even reaches through the computer screen? She was a woman from the country, by her own description. While visiting a web dating site, she felt swept off her feet by

It is not uncommon for us to find ourselves in the same situations, over and over again—like relationships that feel abusive. We may be keep trying to change the outcome of a traumatic situation we’ve experienced before. This time we hope to create a different ending. That’s not always the case. But reenacting with the

Bullying can be traumatic. Whether a child or adult, hearing threats or being physically pushed around causes anxiety, even fear. Bullying in schools leaves a child feeling helpless, fearful, and maybe angry. If you see your child withdrawing or being aggressive toward siblings (animals), it is important to explore what’s going on at school. What

To have a flashback involves revisiting the scene of an actual traumatic event. You have traveled through time and reexperience the event as if it is happening all over again. You may feel what you did during the event. That is not just a thought or a memory. No, it’s being there all over again.

Sometimes others notice our trauma symptoms that we aren’t aware of having. They may point out our staring into space, not answering a question, or sad expression. Trauma can involve dissociation in which we are not always aware of our environment. Perhaps anxiety and fear are crowding our minds, leaving us looking inward and trying