What is trauma?
Trauma can happen to anyone at any time, often catching us off guard. Whether it comes from a major event like a natural disaster or something more personal like bullying or the loss of a loved one, trauma can deeply affect how we feel. The most important thing to remember is—you’re not alone.
Trauma looks different for everyone. What overwhelms one person might affect someone else differently, and that’s completely okay. Your feelings are valid, whether they come and go quickly or linger longer than expected. There’s no “right” way to feel after experiencing trauma, and what matters most is giving yourself the space to process those emotions.
If you’re struggling to cope, remember that support is out there. Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a step towards healing. Sometimes, when trauma goes unaddressed, it can lead to conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), where the effects continue to disrupt your life. With the right care and support, though, you can start to feel better and regain control.
Understanding Trauma
- Trauma can stem from one major event or a series of smaller, ongoing challenges.
- Everyone’s experience is unique, and there’s no “correct” way to feel after trauma.
- Reaching out for help is a powerful step towards healing.
You don’t have to face this alone. With time, care, and support, healing is possible.
31.1% of people reported exposure to trauma by the age of 18 years
1 in 3 adults in England have reported experiencing at least 1 traumatic event
An estimated 1 in 3 children in the UK will experience a traumatic event by the age of 18
Sexual Assault and Trauma: 20% of women and 4% of men in the UK report experiencing sexual assault since the age of 16
What causes trauma?
Trauma can be triggered by a wide range of experiences, affecting people of all ages and backgrounds. In the UK, trauma may result from:
- Bullying or Harassment: Emotional abuse that leaves deep scars.
- Assault or Abuse: Physical or sexual experiences that cause intense emotional pain.
- Childbirth: Difficult births can lead to birth trauma.
- Loss of a Loved One: Grief from a sudden death can have a profound impact.
- Major Events: Exposure to terrorism, natural disasters, or war.
- Everyday Challenges: Situations like surgery, breakups, or financial hardship.
What feels traumatic to one person might not seem as difficult to another, and that’s okay. Take bullying, for example—what might seem like harsh words to one person could cause long-lasting anxiety or fear in someone else.
Trauma in Children
- Vulnerability: Children are particularly sensitive to trauma. Stressful events can have a lasting impact on their emotions and behaviour.
- Long-Term Impact: Without support, childhood trauma can carry over into adulthood, making individuals more vulnerable to emotional challenges.
With the right care and understanding, healing from trauma is possible for both adults and children.
The symptoms and effects of trauma
Trauma manifests in different ways, and its symptoms can range from subtle to overwhelming. It’s normal to experience shock or denial immediately after a traumatic event—this is your brain’s way of protecting you. Over time, these feelings may evolve, and you may experience a variety of physical and emotional symptoms.
Emotional Symptoms
- Shock or Denial: Initial disbelief or numbness that helps you process the trauma gradually.
- Mood Swings: Sudden shifts in emotions, from anger to sadness or fear.
- Flashbacks and Nightmares: Reliving the trauma in your mind or during sleep.
Physical Symptoms
- Heart Racing: Your body may stay in a heightened state of alertness, as if danger is still present.
- Fatigue and Aches: Trauma can physically manifest as tiredness, headaches, or unexplained body aches.
The effects of trauma don’t always appear immediately—they can creep in over time, affecting your relationships, work, and daily routines.
Impact on Daily Life
- Difficulty Concentrating: Trauma can cloud your mind, making it hard to focus on work or everyday tasks.
- Social Withdrawal: You might pull away from loved ones or feel disconnected from social activities.
- Long-Term Effects: Trauma can contribute to anxiety, depression, or PTSD, making recovery more challenging.
Asking for help is a sign of strength. With the right support, you can start to heal and regain control of your life.
How can it be managed?
Taking care of yourself after trauma is crucial, even when it feels difficult. Sticking to familiar routines and leaning on your support network can help you feel more grounded and secure.
Self-Care Strategies
- Maintain Routines: Engaging in daily habits—whether it’s going to work, seeing friends, or simply following a regular schedule—can help you stay connected to your life.
- Build Connections: Spend time with people you trust. Whether it’s family or friends, being around those who care about you can provide comfort and stability.
- Find Joy: Activities that bring you peace or happiness, like hobbies or spending time outdoors, can help you reconnect with yourself.
Practical Tips for Recovery
- Talk About It: Sharing your feelings with someone you trust or writing them down can be a powerful way to process your emotions.
- Lean on Support: Whether through a close friend, a support group, or professional help, connecting with others who understand your experience can be a great relief.
- Nourish Your Body: Good nutrition, rest, and regular activity can support your emotional and physical recovery.
Avoid Major Decisions
- Take Your Time: Avoid making significant life changes immediately after a traumatic event. Give yourself the time and space to process what has happened before diving into major decisions.
Seeking professional support can be incredibly helpful. Whether through your GP or a specialised therapist, there are resources available to guide you through the healing process.
How can hypnotherapy help?
Hypnotherapy offers a gentle and effective way to help you heal from trauma without needing to relive the painful memories. In Solution-Focused Hypnotherapy (SFH), we never revisit the past or focus on the trauma itself. Instead, the approach is future-oriented, helping you take practical steps towards a better emotional state by building on your strengths and what you can do now.
How Hypnotherapy Can Help
- No Revisiting Trauma: Unlike some therapies, SFH focuses on the present and future, avoiding the need to revisit past events. This can help you avoid re-traumatisation while still making progress towards healing.
- Safe Space: Hypnotherapy provides a calm mental space where you can process difficult feelings without feeling overwhelmed.
- Focus on Strengths: SFH helps you build on your strengths, enabling you to move forward with more confidence and resilience.
Benefits of Hypnotherapy
- Deep Relaxation: Sessions promote a sense of calm, allowing your mind and body to rest and recharge.
- Tailored Support: Each session is personalised to your needs, allowing you to progress at your own pace.
Hypnotherapy helps you rediscover your inner strength and resilience, guiding you towards a brighter, more positive future—without revisiting the past trauma.
Our Trauma Specialists
Benn Baker-Pollard
Sittingbourne
Carmen Harrington
Market Harborough
Caroline Prout
Thrapston
Chris Johannes
Spalding
Claire Noyelle
Maidstone East
Dawn Ibbetson
Chelmsford
Gary Johannes
Peterborough
Jill Whitehouse
Newcastle upon Tyne
Keeley Smith
Southend-on-Sea
Kerry Seymour
Weston-super-Mare
Peter Ely
Islington
Victoria Anderson
Sunderland
Why Choose Inspired To Change
Our solution focused hypnotherapists empower you to better understand your brain, helping to guide you towards solutions and achieve the outcomes you want. We have a team of fully trained hypnotherapists, giving you the choice of who to work with and how you want to work with them. Solution focused hypnotherapy is just as effective in-person or online in the comfort of your own home, so you can find the ideal therapist to help you reach your goals.
Every one of our hypnotherapists is recognised by governing bodies like the National Council for Hypnotherapy, the UK’s leading not-for-profit hypnotherapy professional association. They have all trained with Clifton Practice Hypnotherapy Training, one of the leading hypnotherapy schools in the UK.
