What Are The Defensive Responses To Trauma?

What Are The Defensive Responses To Trauma?

Trauma is an experience that can leave a lasting impact on a person’s life. Traumatic events can range from experiencing a natural disaster to being the victim of violence or abuse. When a person experiences trauma, their body and mind go into survival mode. They may experience a variety of physical and emotional reactions, including:

• Shock and disbelief: This is a common reaction to trauma. The person may feel numb or detached from their body and surroundings. They may also have difficulty believing that the event actually happened.
• Fear and anxiety: Trauma can cause intense fear and anxiety. The person may feel like they are in danger, even when they are not. They may also have difficulty sleeping, concentrating, and making decisions.
• Guilt and shame: Trauma can also lead to feelings of guilt and shame. The person may blame themselves for what happened, even if they were not responsible. They may also feel ashamed of their reactions to the trauma.
• Anger and rage: Trauma can also cause anger and rage. The person may feel angry at the person or people who caused the trauma, or they may feel angry at themselves. They may also have difficulty controlling their anger.

Defensive Responses to Trauma

In addition to the physical and emotional reactions listed above, people who have experienced trauma may also develop defensive responses. These responses are designed to protect the person from further harm. However, they can also interfere with the person’s ability to function in everyday life.

Some of the most common defensive responses to trauma include:

• Avoidance: People who have experienced trauma may avoid people, places, or things that remind them of the trauma. They may also avoid talking about the trauma or thinking about it.
• Numbing: Numbing is a way of emotionally shutting down. People who numb themselves may feel detached from their emotions and from the world around them. They may also have difficulty experiencing pleasure or joy.
• Self-medication: People who have experienced trauma may self-medicate with alcohol, drugs, or other substances. This is a way of trying to cope with the pain and discomfort of the trauma.
• Acting out: Acting out is a way of expressing buried emotions in a harmful way. People who act out may engage in risky or impulsive behaviors, such as self-harm, substance abuse, or violence.

Getting Help

If you have experienced trauma, it is important to seek help. A therapist can help you to process the trauma and develop coping mechanisms. Therapy can also help you to reduce the symptoms of PTSD and other mental health conditions that may develop after trauma.

Questions and Answers

• What are the most common defensive responses to trauma?
• Avoidance, numbing, self-medication, and acting out.
• How can therapy help people who have experienced trauma?
• Therapy can help people to process the trauma, develop coping mechanisms, and reduce the symptoms of PTSD.
• What are some self-help strategies for coping with trauma?
• There are several self-help strategies for coping with trauma. Box breathing, grounding techniques, and PTSD apps can be helpful.
• What are some resources for finding a therapist who specializes in trauma?
• The American Psychological Association and the National Association of Social Workers can help you find a therapist who specializes in trauma.
• What are the benefits of seeking help for trauma?
• Seeking help for trauma can improve your mental health, physical health, and overall quality of life.