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Trauma can affect how you feel in your mind and body, how safe the world feels, and how you respond to other people and everyday life. Difficulties relating to trauma can start soon after a difficult experience or can surface months or years later, sometimes without a clear trigger. This is not a sign of weakness. They are often the mind and body’s way of trying to protect you after feeling overwhelmed or unsafe.
Trauma can look different from one person to another. It can be shaped by experiences that felt unsafe or out of your control, how long it went on, the support you had at the time, and whether you are also managing anxiety, low mood, sleep problems, or other pressures. It can affect day to day life in ways that feel exhausting, confusing, or hard to put into words.
You may recognise some of these experiences in yourself:
Feeling on edge, alert, or “keyed up”, even when things seem calm
Finding it hard to relax or switch off, especially at night
Being easily startled or feeling jumpy
Avoiding reminders of what happened, including places, people, conversations, or situations
Feeling emotionally numb, disconnected, or like you are going through the motions
Struggling to go out
Unwanted memories, dreams, nightmares or intrusive thoughts that show up unexpectedly
Many people live with difficulties relating to trauma for a long time before they understand what is happening. You might have learnt to push through, keep busy, or minimise your feelings. You may also have adapted in ways that helped you cope at the time but now feel hard to carry.
Understanding and seeking support for trauma can bring relief and self compassion. It can help to make sense of your reactions and find support that helps you feel safer, steadier, and more in control.