Common symptoms of trauma include memories that feel like they are happening again, nightmares, feeling constantly on edge or jumpy, avoiding people or places, or feeling emotionally numb.

For some people with a history of trauma, relationships can feel confusing. There is a push/pull effect where you pull away then miss it. This is not indecision, it is a nervous system trying to stay safe.

The way our brains process trauma can cause certain memories to become frozen in time because our nervous system struggles to feel safe and responds to protect us.

Some examples of triggers that may take more support working through are: a certain tone of voice, conflict, rejection, authority figures.

After relational trauma, the body remembers relationships being unsafe, inconsistent, or unpredictable. The body learn that closeness, distance, and being alone can all hurt so it never fully relaxes.

Attachment and independence can both be linked to danger.

Feeling numb can mean having trouble connecting with your feelings and others. It is a form of dissociation where it is safer to be numb than to feel. You might find it hard to feel happiness, sadness, or love, which can affect relationships and daily interactions.

Yes, mood swings, irritability, anger, sadness, or feelings of hopelessness are common emotional responses following trauma.

Symptoms can last for months or even years if not addressed. They may fluctuate =, sometimes becoming more intense when triggered by reminders of the trauma.

Without support or treatment, symptoms can intensify, especially when new stressors or trauma reminders occur.

Children may express symptoms after trauma differently, sometimes as increase in tantrums, difficulty concentrating, withdrawal from activities or changes in behaviors and sleep patterns.