Living through an extremely threatening or distressing experience can result in psychological trauma. Anytime a harmful experience leaves a person feeling fearful, isolated or vulnerable it can result in lasting psychological trauma.
Types of Events
- Victim of physical or sexual assault
- Victim of extreme abuse
- Experiencing an act of violence such as robbery
- Involvement in a serious accident
- Living through a life-threatening natural disaster
- Loss of a loved one
- Sustaining personal injury or developing a debilitating health condition
Risk Factors
Emotional, mental, spiritual or physical harm that was…
- Unexpected or for which the person was unprepared
- Cruel or humiliating
- Isolated or occurred repeatedly
- Personally devastating
Symptoms
Depression, anger, severe anxiety and isolation are some of the symptoms of psychological trauma.
It’s important to be aware that experiencing psychological trauma can also lead to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).