The word "trauma" often calls to mind images of catastrophic events, but its origins are surprisingly simple. Derived from the Greek word for "wound," trauma simply refers to any experience that overwhelms our capacity to cope. These wounds can be physical, emotional, or psychological, and they can linger long after the initial event has passed. Just like a physical injury, emotional wounds can cause pain, limiting and shaping our experience of self, with others and the world around us.

While trauma can manifest in countless ways, some common ways identified by psychotherapist Lise Bourbeau include;

Abandonment: The fear of being left alone or unsupported.
Rejection: The feeling of being unwanted or unlovable.
Humiliation: Experiences of shame or degradation.
Betrayal: The violation of trust by someone close to us.
Injustice: Being treated unfairly or witnessing injustice.

These events do not have to be intense, or even literal, if they are felt the body records them.

These wounds can stem from a wide range of experiences, including childhood neglect, abuse, witnessing violence, or even seemingly "minor" events that had a profound impact on our sense of safety and security.

PTSD vs. C-PTSD: Understanding the Spectrum of Trauma

While the terms "trauma" and "PTSD" are often used interchangeably, there are key distinctions to understand. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) typically arises from a single, identifiable event. Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD), on the other hand, often stems from prolonged or repeated trauma, such as childhood abuse or neglect. Another distinction is C-PTSD has a component of an interpersonal relationship.

C-PTSD can manifest in a wider range of symptoms, including difficulties with emotional regulation, distorted self-perception, and challenges in relationships. Both PTSD and C-PTSD can significantly impact our quality of life, but understanding the nuances can help us seek appropriate support.

Could Trauma Therapy Help?

While there's no one-size-fits-all answer, certain experiences may indicate a need for trauma-informed therapy. Consider these questions adapted from Bessel van der Kolk's Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) test:

Did you often feel that no one in your family loved you or thought you were important or special?
Did you often feel that you didn't have enough to eat, had to wear dirty clothes, and had no one to protect you?
Did you often feel afraid or alone as a child?
Did a parent or other adult in the household often or very often swear at you, insult you, put you down, or humiliate you?
Did a parent or other adult in the household often or very often act in a way that made you afraid that you might be physically hurt?
Did you feel that your childhood was happy?
Did you feel loved and supported as a child?
Did you feel safe and protected as a child?
Did you feel like you could trust the adults in your life?
Do you often feel like you are on high alert, as if danger is always lurking?

If you answered "yes" to several of these questions, it may be beneficial to explore trauma therapy. A skilled therapist can provide a safe and supportive space to process your experiences, develop coping strategies, and move towards healing and growth.

Is Trauma Therapy for Me? Unpacking the Wounds That Linger

PTSD vs. C-PTSD: Understanding the Spectrum of Trauma

Could Trauma Therapy Help?