What is Trauma?

Trauma includes a emotional and psychological response to a distressing event. There is a large span of what can be considered a traumatic event and each person may respond differently to a traumatic event.

Signs of Trauma

Signs of having experienced a traumatic event can include responses right after the event or come months later. Signs can include:

• Having troubles sleeping or concentrating
• Feelings of anxiety, sadness or anger
• Constantly thinking about event
• Headaches
• Tiredness
• Easily startled and jumpy

Treatment Options

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Uses:

• Focuses on addressing experienced trauma and be able to confront and cope with any emotional triggers

Talk Therapy

Uses:

• Help address emotional distress and strengthen stress management through verbal communication

What are ACEs?

ACEs, Adverse Childhood Experiences, are defined as traumatic or stressful events that take place in early childhood.

ACEs include:

• Physical abuse
• Sexual abuse
• Emotional abuse
• Physical neglect
• Emotional neglect
• Intimate partner violence
• Mother treated violently
• Substance misuse within household
• Household mental illness
• Parental separation or divorce
• Incarcerated household member

Risks associated with ACEs

• Early alcohol use
• Substance use
• Addiction
• Depressive episodes
• Suicide attempts
• Problems with sleep
• Chronic Pain
• Type 2 diabetes
• Obesity