A person can experience trauma after any situation that they find distressing or threatening. Learn the causes, symptoms, and treatments.
Trauma is an emotional response to a terrible event like an accident, crime, or natural disaster. Reactions such as shock and denial are typical. Longer term reactions include unpredictable emotions, flashbacks, strained relationships, and physical symptoms.
Traumatic stress occurs when a child (0-18 years) feels intensely threatened by an event they experience or witness. SAMHSA addresses the impact of trauma on individuals, families, and communities as a behavioral health concern that requires a healing and recovery process.