What Is Traumatic Stress?

by Dan Paulk

Traumatic Event - an experience so powerful that it goes beyond a normal coping mechanisms.

• Perceived through all senses: sight, sound, touch, smell, taste.
• Overwhelms the mind: too big to handle.
• Causes defense mechanisms such as dissociation, denial.

The "Faces" of Traumatic Stress

People with traumatic stress have normal and expected sets of symptoms. Many reactions are rather predictable and common for most people:

Physical changes: fatigue, heartburn, headaches, changes in appetite, changes in sleeping patterns, psychosomatic complaints/disorders and irritability.

Emotional changes: numbness/denial, confusion, panic or anxiety attacks, fear, despair, depression, grief, withdrawal, flashbacks, nightmare, and feelings of isolation, loneliness, helplessness and/or vulnerability.

Behavioral changes: increased alcohol/drug use, family tension and stress, changes in "energy level", poor concentration/distractiveness, low morale and productivity, anger and rage.