3 Signs of Trauma
Here are 3 lesser-known signs of Trauma, and what you can do:
Trauma — otherwise known as PTSD or CPTSD, can be hard to recognize because each individual processes experiences differently based on their biology, history, and environmental factor. There are more obvious signs of trauma including nightmares and avoiding reminders of traumatic events. Find out if you resonate with one or more of these three more subtle signs of trauma:
Somatic (Body) Symptoms: Our bodies are communicating to us all of the time. In my work as a Trauma-Focused Anxiety Somatic Therapist, I have seen this confirmed many times over. Bodies will store experiences and memories that have not been processed, as a form of protection. This can sometimes be seen in recurring headaches, chronic pain, indigestion, and other unexplainable body symptoms. Working with a Somatic Therapist can be beneficial. Recommended Reading: The Body Keeps The Score by Bessel van der Kolk
Relationship Issues: When someone has trauma, it can sometimes be difficult to develop safe and consistent attachments with others. Perhaps there is a tendency to avoid getting “too close” or maybe there is a strong urge to connect with people very quickly and intensely, sometimes leading to missed red flags. We learn relationship patterns as children and repeat what we know. Sometimes what we are doing is working for us and other times, it leaves us confused, hurt, and repeating similar patterns. Working with a psychotherapist with training in supporting clients with attachment trauma can be beneficial. Recommended Reading: Attached by Amir Levine and Rachel S.F. Heller
Strong Inner Critic: Perhaps you notice a strong urge to do things perfectly and you feel like a failure most of the time. Maybe you are critical of others and even more harsh towards yourself. How is your inner voice? How do you respond to yourself when you don’t meet your goals or the expectations of society/family/others? Perfectionism can be a sign of unresolved trauma that may stem from childhood and narcissistic abuse in families. Recommended Reading: The Drama of The Gifted Child by Alice Miller
These are just a handful of signs that may indicate unresolved trauma. If they bother you, offer yourself compassion and consider working with a trauma-focused therapist. It is always a good idea to check with your health care provider for guidance if your physical symptoms are not improving.