SYMPTOMS OF TRAUMA

When the brain is "hijacked" by the energies of fight, flight, or freeze, the nervous system becomes overactive and emotional defenses are triggered. Many bodily sensations occur which seem confusing.

Reactions may not be obviously related to your experience of the threat. Here are some symptoms which MAY be related to a previous trauma.

Anxiety

Chronic pain

Compulsive behaviors or thoughts

Depression

Disorientation, or feeling "off balance" or disconnected

Disrupted relationships

Exaggerated startle response

Fears that can't be resolved by information

Frozen, or tense, muscles

Gastrointestinal disruptions

High blood pressure

Hyperactivity, constant motion, or inability to rest

Hypervigilence, overly reactive to "normal" situation

Impulsivity, react without thinking

Insomnia, or feeling sleepy during the day

Lost your joy in life

Pain that your doctor can't explain

Poor memory

Repeatedly remembering the upsetting event, flashbacks, inability to "get on with your life"