Understanding the Different Types of Trauma

Even after experiencing a distressing event, you might hesitate to call it trauma—thinking it must mean something "more serious." In reality, trauma can describe many different experiences. At Next Step Psychiatry in Lilburn, we help patients throughout Gwinnett County recognize and heal from various forms of trauma.

What Is Trauma?

Trauma happens in the aftermath of terrible, potentially life-altering events. But trauma is less about the event itself and more about your reaction to it. Two people can experience the same distressing situation without both developing lasting trauma.

Trauma forces your brain into survival mode (fight, flight, freeze, or fawn). If your brain doesn't switch back, those survival impulses can impair your daily functioning and lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Symptoms of Trauma

• Avoiding problems or conflict
• Feeling afraid, anxious, or panicked without apparent reason
• Depression, emotional numbness, or feeling nothing at all
• Increased irritability or anger
• Dissociation—experiencing life as if it were a movie
• Sleep problems and nightmares
• Withdrawing from others
• Unexplained body aches and fatigue

Types of Trauma

Acute Trauma

Occurs during and shortly after a single distressing event, like an accident, assault, or natural disaster.

Chronic Trauma

Develops from prolonged distressing situations involving multiple incidents, such as ongoing domestic violence or childhood abuse.

Complex Trauma

Results from a variety of distressing events, often involving multiple types of trauma. Complex trauma frequently begins in childhood and can have lifelong effects.

Historical/Intergenerational Trauma

Affects large groups of people through widespread events like natural disasters, war, or institutional discrimination, with effects potentially passing to subsequent generations.

How to Heal from Trauma

• Make connections: Lean into support networks; consider joining support groups
• Seek therapy: Trauma-focused therapies like EMDR and prolonged exposure therapy are highly effective
• Consider psychiatry: Medication can help manage distressing symptoms while you work through trauma