Trauma is more common than many people realize and its effects often run deeper than we expect. Whether caused by a single event or a series of experiences over time, trauma can change how a person thinks, feels, and interacts with the world. And when those effects persist, they may lead to a condition known as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
At Gianan Health, we believe that understanding trauma and PTSD is an important step toward breaking down stigma and supporting healing. You don’t need to have lived through combat or a natural disaster to be impacted by trauma. And you don’t need to carry it alone.
What Is Trauma?
Trauma refers to an emotional response to a distressing or threatening event. It can be the result of a single shocking experience, such as a car accident or assault, or it can develop gradually after ongoing exposure to harm: such as neglect, abuse, or repeated loss.
Trauma doesn’t always look dramatic from the outside. Some people function at work or school while carrying an internal weight that others can’t see. What one person brushes off might deeply affect someone else. There’s no “right way” to respond to trauma, and all experiences are valid.
Common Causes of Trauma
Some of the most common sources of trauma include:
- Physical or sexual assault
- Emotional abuse or childhood neglect
- Domestic violence
- Car accidents or other serious injuries
- Medical trauma, such as ICU stays or difficult childbirth
- Natural disasters or fires
- Sudden loss of a loved one
- Witnessing violence or a traumatic event
- Military combat
- Bullying, harassment, or repeated emotional harm
It’s also important to recognize vicarious trauma—emotional harm that can occur from hearing about or witnessing someone else’s trauma, often experienced by healthcare workers, first responders, or caregivers.
What Is PTSD?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after trauma. While many people experience stress, grief, or shock after a difficult event, PTSD involves ongoing symptoms that interfere with daily life.
Symptoms of PTSD may begin soon after the trauma or may not appear for weeks, months, or even years. Common symptoms include:
- Intrusive memories – unwanted thoughts, flashbacks, or distressing dreams
- Avoidance – steering clear of people, places, or conversations that remind you of the trauma
- Hyperarousal – feeling constantly on edge, easily startled, or unable to relax
- Negative thoughts or beliefs – persistent shame, guilt, or hopelessness
- Emotional numbing – feeling disconnected from yourself or others
- Sleep disturbances – trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing frequent nightmares
- Irritability or outbursts – increased anger or difficulty managing emotions
PTSD can affect people of all ages and backgrounds. It’s not a sign of weakness or lack of resilience, it’s a human response to experiences that felt overwhelming or unsafe.
Complex Trauma and Childhood Experiences
Not all trauma stems from a single event. Complex trauma can develop from repeated exposure to harm over time, especially during childhood. Examples include growing up in an unstable home, witnessing domestic violence, or experiencing long-term emotional neglect.
Children who experience trauma may struggle with emotional regulation, trust, attention, and development. Without support, these effects can follow a person into adulthood, sometimes without them realizing the connection.
Adults with unprocessed trauma from childhood may experience:
- Chronic anxiety or depression
- Difficulty maintaining relationships
- Emotional numbness or detachment
- Perfectionism or people-pleasing behaviors
- Difficulty trusting others or themselves
Understanding and treating complex trauma requires a thoughtful, compassionate approach that honors each person’s history and emotional needs.
Why Understanding Trauma Matters
Many people living with PTSD or trauma-related symptoms don’t recognize what they’re experiencing. They may blame themselves, avoid talking about their feelings, or assume they just need to “move on.”
But trauma doesn’t heal on its own with time. Avoiding it can lead to increased symptoms, strained relationships, and worsening mental health.
By learning more about trauma and PTSD, we can:
- Better understand ourselves and others
- Create more supportive communities and relationships
- Reduce stigma around mental health
- Recognize when it’s time to seek help
Healing Is Possible
With the right care, many people find relief from trauma-related symptoms and regain a sense of control, safety, and peace. Treatment does not mean reliving the trauma: it means gently working through its effects with support.
At Gianan Health, we offer:
- Trauma-informed psychotherapy, using evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and DBT
- Medication management, when appropriate, to address symptoms like anxiety, depression, or sleep issues
- A safe, respectful space to explore emotions and develop strategies for healing
We move at your pace. Whether you’re ready to talk or just beginning to consider reaching out, we’re here to support you with empathy and care.
When to Seek Support
Consider reaching out if:
- You feel stuck in patterns that no longer serve you
- You avoid situations or people that remind you of a past experience
- You struggle with sleep, focus, or emotional ups and downs
- You feel disconnected, numb, or out of control
- You want to understand yourself more deeply and find a path forward
There is no timeline for healing. What matters is that support is available when you’re ready. Gianan Health is committed to providing prompt, attentive care to every client. New patients are scheduled within 1–2 weeks of reaching out. For appointments, call us today at 630-340-1620.
