Trauma Symptom Check

What is Trauma?

Trauma refers to emotional response to deeply distressing or disturbing events.

Trauma can affect people in many ways, including emotionally, physically, and relationally.

How Trauma Develops

Trauma develops when an experience overwhelms your ability to cope. This can happen suddenly, such as in an accident or assault, or over time through repeated experiences.

Your brain and body respond to trauma by activating survival mechanisms. These responses, while helpful in the moment, can persist long after the danger has passed.

How Trauma Can Affect You

• Emotional distress or numbness
• Difficulty with relationships
• Changes in sleep or eating
• Feeling disconnected
• Difficulty trusting others
• Feeling constantly on guard

Understanding Your Results

Your score reflects how much trauma symptoms are currently affecting your daily life. Remember that these symptoms are normal responses to abnormal events, and healing is possible.

• 0-8: Minimal impact - Little to no trauma symptoms
• 9-16: Mild impact - Some trauma symptoms present
• 17-24: Moderate impact - Significant trauma symptoms
• 25-32: Severe impact - Severe trauma symptoms requiring professional attention

Healing Strategies

Self-Care Strategies

• Practice grounding techniques
• Talk to someone you trust
• Take care of your physical health
• Be gentle with yourself
• Set boundaries
• Seek support when needed

Professional Therapy Options

• Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
• Prolonged Exposure Therapy
• Group therapy with trauma survivors
• Somatic experiencing
• Mindfulness-based approaches

Medication Options

While there's no medication specifically for trauma, certain medications can help manage symptoms:

• Antidepressants (SSRIs) for depression and anxiety
• Anti-anxiety medications for acute anxiety symptoms
• Sleep aids for insomnia (short-term use)
• Prazosin for trauma-related nightmares

When to Seek Help

Consider seeking support if:

• You're having trouble coping
• Symptoms are getting worse
• You feel stuck
• You're using unhealthy coping mechanisms
• You want professional support

Trauma in Different Populations

Children and Trauma

Children may respond to trauma differently than adults:

• Regression to earlier behaviors (bedwetting, thumb-sucking)
• Changes in school performance
• Increased clinginess or separation anxiety
• Acting out the trauma in play
• Physical complaints (stomachaches, headaches)
• Sleep disturbances or nightmares

Older Adults and Trauma

Older adults may experience unique trauma responses:

• Increased confusion or memory problems
• Withdrawal from social activities
• Exacerbation of existing health conditions
• Grief and loss complications
• Feelings of vulnerability or helplessness
• Difficulty adapting to change

References

• American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
• National Institute of Mental Health. (2022). Trauma and Recovery. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/trauma