10 Signs of Emotional Trauma In Adults

Emotional trauma is a psychological response to distressing events. It can result from a single event, such as an accident or natural disaster, or from ongoing stressors, such as abuse or neglect. These events can shatter a person’s sense of security and lead to a pervasive feeling of vulnerability. The impact of emotional trauma can be immediate or develop over time, often influencing both mental and physical health in profound ways.

The effects of trauma are not uniform; they vary greatly depending on personal history, the nature of the traumatic event and the support systems in place. Some people may show resilience and recover quickly, while others may experience prolonged distress. Emotional trauma can alter brain function, affecting memory, cognition and the ability to form meaningful relationships.

Signs of Emotional Trauma in Adults

The signs of emotional trauma in adults may vary, but often include:

1. Intrusive thoughts

One of the most common signs of trauma is experiencing intrusive thoughts or flashbacks related to the traumatic event. These involuntary thoughts can be distressing as the person might find themselves reliving the event in vivid detail, which can provoke intense emotional responses and physical symptoms such as sweating or a racing heart. These thoughts can also arise unexpectedly, making it difficult for people to concentrate on their work or enjoy leisure activities, further contributing to their stress and anxiety.

The intensity and frequency of intrusive thoughts can vary, and they may be triggered by specific reminders of the trauma, such as sounds, smells or places. Over time, these persistent intrusions can lead to an avoidance cycle, where the person seeks to escape reminders of the trauma, impacting their ability to engage fully in life.

2. Avoidance behavior

As just mentioned, people who have experienced trauma may engage in avoidance behaviors. Avoiding reminders of the traumatic event is another key sign of emotional trauma. This could mean avoiding certain places, people or activities that trigger memories of the trauma. Over time, avoidance behavior can significantly restrict one’s life, leading to isolation and a reduction in quality of life. For example, someone who has experienced a car accident might avoid driving or even getting into a car, which can impact their ability to maintain employment or social connections.

Avoidance can also manifest in emotional ways, such as suppressing feelings related to the trauma or avoiding talking about the experience altogether. This can hinder the healing process, as the person might not fully process their emotions or confront their trauma.

3. Hyperarousal

Hyperarousal refers to a state of heightened alertness and anxiety. The person may feel on edge, have difficulty sleeping or be easily startled. This constant state of heightened awareness can be exhausting. People in hyperarousal may also experience irritability or angry outbursts, which can strain relationships and lead to further isolation. The body’s stress response system is often in overdrive, making it challenging for the person to relax or feel safe, even in non-threatening environments.

This heightened state can also impact physical health, leading to conditions such as hypertension or chronic fatigue. Hyperarousal can interfere with daily functioning, making it difficult to concentrate or complete tasks. Therapeutic approaches, such as mindfulness practices and relaxation techniques, can be beneficial in reducing hyperarousal symptoms by helping the person regulate their stress responses and restore a sense of calm.

4. Emotional numbness

Some people may experience emotional numbness or a lack of emotional responsiveness. This can manifest as difficulty experiencing joy, sadness or other typical emotional responses. Emotional numbness can be a protective mechanism, shielding the person from overwhelming feelings associated with trauma. However, it can also lead to detachment from loved ones, resulting in feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Over time, emotional numbness can affect the person’s ability to engage in meaningful relationships or pursue activities they once enjoyed. This disconnection from emotions can also hinder personal growth and lead to a feeling of stagnation.

5. Difficulty trusting others

Emotional trauma can impact a person’s ability to trust others. They may become overly suspicious or feel vulnerable in relationships, making it challenging to form close connections. This lack of trust often stems from the trauma survivor’s sense of betrayal or violation during the traumatic event. It can lead to a guarded approach to relationships, where the person may keep others at a distance to protect themselves from potential harm.

Difficulty trusting others can hinder both personal and professional relationships, limiting opportunities for support and growth. It can also perpetuate feelings of isolation and loneliness, as the person may struggle to open up or share their experiences with others.

6. Mood swings

Emotional trauma can lead to mood swings, where people experience sudden shifts in emotions, such as going from feeling calm to being angry or sad without a clear cause. These mood swings can be unpredictable and may occur in response to seemingly minor triggers, causing confusion and distress for the person and those around them. Over time, this emotional instability can contribute to strained relationships and difficulties in maintaining employment or daily routines.

The underlying causes of mood swings often involve unresolved trauma-related emotions or stress. Addressing these through therapeutic interventions can help the person gain insight into their emotional responses and develop strategies to manage them more effectively.

7. Self-destructive behavior

Some people may engage in self-destructive behaviors as a way to cope with emotional pain. This can include substance abuse, reckless driving or self-harm. These behaviors often serve as temporary escapes from distressing emotions or memories, providing momentary relief but ultimately exacerbating the person’s trauma and difficulties. Self-destructive actions can have severe consequences, affecting physical health, relationships and personal safety.

8. Feelings of guilt or shame

Feelings of guilt or shame are common among people who have experienced trauma. They may blame themselves for the event or feel ashamed of their reactions to it. These emotions can be deeply entrenched and may stem from societal or cultural messages that assign blame to victims. Left unaddressed, guilt and shame can lead to a negative self-image and hinder the healing process.

Therapeutic interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, can help people challenge and reframe these negative beliefs, promoting self-compassion and acceptance.

9. Physical symptoms

Emotional trauma can also manifest as physical symptoms, such as headaches, stomachaches or chronic pain, without a clear medical cause. These symptoms can further complicate daily life, as they may interfere with work, social activities and personal responsibilities. The mind-body connection is powerful, and unresolved emotional trauma can lead to physical manifestations that require attention and care.

10. Difficulty concentrating

Trauma can impair cognitive functions, making it difficult for people to concentrate, focus or make decisions. This can affect work or academic performance, leading to additional stress and frustration. Cognitive difficulties can arise from the brain’s response to trauma, as it prioritizes survival mechanisms over higher-order thinking processes. This can result in memory lapses, difficulty retaining information and an overall sense of mental fog.

Healing from Trauma

Understanding the signs of trauma is the first step in healing. Here are some strategies for healing from trauma:

Trauma-informed therapy

Trauma-informed therapy is a therapeutic approach that recognizes the impact of trauma and seeks to create a safe environment for healing. Therapists trained in this approach use techniques that help people process their trauma and develop healthier coping mechanisms. This form of therapy emphasizes the importance of safety, trustworthiness, and empowerment in the therapeutic relationship, allowing people to explore their experiences without fear of judgment or re-traumatization.

Trauma-informed therapy can include a variety of modalities, such as somatic experiencing, narrative therapy or trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy, tailored to meet the unique needs of each person. By working with a trauma-informed therapist, the person can gain a deeper understanding of their trauma, build resilience and foster personal growth, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling life.

Self-care practices

Self-care is essential in the healing process. This can include physical activities like yoga or exercise, creative outlets such as art or music and relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing exercises. Engaging in self-care helps people reconnect with their bodies, express their emotions, and find balance in their lives. It also fosters a sense of agency, as people actively participate in their healing journey.

Incorporating self-care into daily routines can also provide a sense of stability and predictability, which can be comforting for people recovering from trauma. Regular self-care practices can enhance overall well-being, reduce stress and promote relaxation, creating a foundation for healing and personal growth.

Building a support system

Having a support system of friends, family or support groups can provide the necessary emotional support during the healing journey. Connecting with others who have experienced similar trauma can also be beneficial. Support systems offer a sense of belonging and understanding, allowing people to share their experiences and receive validation and encouragement.

Building a support system can also involve seeking out community resources, such as trauma support groups or online forums, where people can connect with others who are navigating similar challenges.

Mindfulness and grounding techniques

Mindfulness and grounding techniques help the person stay present and reduce anxiety. Techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation or visualization can be effective in managing symptoms. Mindfulness practices encourage people to focus on the present moment, reducing the impact of intrusive thoughts or overwhelming emotions.

Grounding techniques, such as focusing on the senses or engaging in physical activities, can help people feel more connected to their bodies and surroundings, promoting a sense of safety and stability.

Seeking professional help

For those struggling with severe trauma, seeking professional help from a mental health professional is crucial. Mental health professionals can also offer guidance on developing coping strategies and managing symptoms, providing a comprehensive approach to healing.

Working with a professional can help people gain a deeper understanding of their trauma and its impact, empowering them to take control of their healing journey. It’s important to remember that seeking help is a sign of strength and that recovery is a collaborative process that involves both the person and their support network.

Find Help for Your Mental Health

Emotional trauma can have a profound impact on someone’s life, but with the right support and treatment, healing is possible. Taking proactive steps toward healing can improve overall well-being.

If you or someone you know is struggling with emotional trauma, Thousand Branches Wellness is here to help.

With multiple locations across the country, Thousand Branches Wellness is dedicated to quality mental health outpatient treatment (including trauma treatment) based on our core values of compassion, respect and trust. Our mental health services include an intensive outpatient program, traditional outpatient therapy, medication management and virtual counseling.

To learn more about how Thousand Branches Wellness can serve your needs, do not hesitate to reach out to us by filling out our contact form or giving us a call at 877-829-2923.