Trauma is defined as a rather complex emotional and/or physical response to an event or series of events which may have been deeply distressing or disturbing. Although many of us are familiar with the term PTSD, some may not fully appreciate the symptoms and stressors which accompany the disorder. PTSD is commonly associated with war veterans who have returned home after serving - and that's a great place to start, but certainly not fully encompassing of the disorder. Trauma can be any scenario wherein the individual experiences significant distress and is subsequently impacted by the memory of the event. 

 

In a 2016 Worldwide study, over 70% of respondents reported having experienced a traumatic event, with approximately 30.5% of people experiencing four or more traumatic events. Traumatic events can take on myriad forms, but there are 5 specific types that are most commonly reported: witnessing a death or serious injury, the unexpected death of a loved one, being mugged or "jumped," being in a life-threatening automobile accident, and experiencing a life-threatening illness or injury. 

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Following a given traumatic event, the individual may subsequently experience an array of symptoms indicative of PTSD. Some commonly reported symptoms include a loss of self worth, shame, a loss of intimacy, and loss of pertinent danger cues. Trauma can deeply affect the brain in various regions, which ultimately causes the long term effects of PTSD. In children diagnosed with abuse-related PTSD, we often see decreased prefrontal cortex volume - its growth  stunted by the traumatic experiences they have endured. Decreases in PFC volume can lead to a host of unfortunate problems, with the primary concern being blunted sense of self. Because the PFC plays a pivotal role within the Default Mode Network, the conglomerate of brain regions responsible for building sense of self, children of abuse often struggle to shape this understanding.

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Understanding the complexity of PTSD is no easy task, but it is undeniably necessary to try. By being receptive and understanding of those with trauma related mental disorders, we can continue to reduce the stigma surrounding them.