18/05/2026
Trauma awareness is vital to reduce stigma and understand practical ways to support ourselves and others at the time of need.
Trauma is not only what happened to a person, but how their body and mind responded to it.
It can result from a single event (accident, assault, loss) or ongoing stress (abuse, neglect, chronic exposure to violence or instability).
Two people can experience the same event, but be affected very differently.
How trauma can affect us
Emotional: anxiety, irritability, sadness, emotional numbness
Cognitive: poor concentration, intrusive memories, negative beliefs about self or world
Physical: sleep problems, headaches, fatigue, body tension
Behavioural: withdrawal, avoidance, substance use, aggression
Trauma in children
May present as behavioural changes rather than verbal expression
Includes regression, clinginess, aggression, or school difficulties
Early recognition and support improves long-term outcomes significantly.
Healing and recovery
Safety and stable relationships are the foundation of recovery
Trauma-informed care avoids re-traumatisation (e.g., forcing disclosure)
Therapy, supportive relationships, and community support are effective in the healing and recovery journey.
Recovery is possible and often gradual.
What to say:
1. You are safe now NOT get over it
2. I believe you NOT Are you sure that's what happened
3. Do you want to talk or be distracted NOT You have to talk about it to heal
4. That sounds really hard NOT at least it wasn't me
5. What do you need right now NOT calm down
Seek professional help if
Symptoms persist beyond a few weeks/months and affect daily life
Panic attacks, flashbacks, or severe anxiety
Self-harm thoughts or substance dependence
Difficulty functioning at work, school, or home
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