What is Trauma and Do I Have Trauma?

Trauma can feel like a heavy word,

but at its core, trauma is any upsetting experience that leaves a significant impact on how you feel, think, or connect to others. It’s not only about major events, like assaults or accidents; trauma can also arise from experiences that might seem minor to others but feel deeply significant to you. It can build up over time from ongoing stress, such as difficulties in relationship, emotional neglect, or a tough childhood.

Trauma can show up in various ways, including anxiety, depression, physical tension, or a general sense of not feeling safe or relaxed. The painful memories might resurface at unexpected moments. It can feel like a dark cloud that follows you everywhere, consuming your thoughts, casting a shadow on your aspirations, and challenging your sense of self. No matter the type of trauma, it is a strong force that can shape your life in profound ways and feels like a never ending struggle.

If you’re unsure whether you’ve experienced trauma or PTSD,

consider how certain memories, emotions, or relationships affect you today. Trauma doesn’t have to last forever, and understanding it can be the first step toward finding some peace.

Do you feel “stuck” in certain emotions or memories?

Trauma can leaves you feeling trapped in past experiences or prevent you from moving on. This might lead to negative beliefs about yourself, others, or the world.

Do you have intrusive thoughts, nightmares, or flashbacks?

Replaying distressing memories or feeling like you’re reliving them is a common symptom. Alternatively, you might have difficulty remembering details of what happened.

Do you notice unusual emotions like fear, anger, sadness, or feel emotionally “shut down”?

Trauma responses can come as intense emotions or feeling numb, hopeless, or emotionally disconnected.

Do you avoid places, people, or activities that remind you of painful experiences?

Avoidance is often a coping mechanism to keep difficult memories or emotions at bay. This could result in losing interest in activities, having trouble trusting others or forming close relationships. You might also feel disconnected from yourself or the surrounding environment, as if observing from a distance.

Do you experience physical symptoms when reminded of past events?

Trauma can show up physically, like feeling your chest tighten, feeling jumpy, always being on high alert, or feeling exhausted.

Trauma is unique to each person, 

and no experience is "too small" to leave a lasting impact. If certain memories or feelings seem to keep you stuck or cause distress, exploring this in therapy could help you understand your experiences and see if past events are affecting your present.

There’s Hope for Healing trauma & PTSD.

You don’t have to let your past dictate your present and future. You don’t have to let it steal your joy or keep you from living authentically. Confronting your fears and the pain of your past is hard, but it’s the path toward real freedom, the kind that lets you fully show up in your life and relationships without hiding.

If you’re ready to let go of what’s holding you back and address your pain at its source, help is here. EMDR therapy is an effective treatment approach for trauma and PTSD. Schedule your free consultation today and begin trauma therapy with me, Linda Chi, licensed therapist in Oklahoma and Texas.