What are the symptoms of trauma? 

Common symptoms of PTSD and Complex Trauma include:

• reliving the trauma through flashbacks and nightmares
• avoiding situations that remind them of the trauma
• dizziness or nausea when remembering the trauma
• hyperarousal, which means being in a continual state of high alert
• the belief that the world is a dangerous place
• a loss of trust in the self or others
• difficulty sleeping or concentrating
• being startled by loud noises

People with PTSD or Complex Trauma may also experience:

• A negative self-view. Complex PTSD can cause a person to view themselves negatively and feel helpless, guilty, or ashamed. They often consider themselves to be different from other people.
• Changes in beliefs and worldview. People with either condition may hold a negative view of the world and the people in it or lose faith in previously held beliefs.
• Emotional regulation difficulties. These conditions can cause people to lose control over their emotions. They may experience intense anger or sadness or have thoughts of suicide.
• Relationship issues. Relationships may suffer due to difficulties trusting and interacting, and because of a negative self-view. A person with either condition may develop unhealthy relationships because they are what the person has known in the past.
• Detachment from the trauma. A person may dissociate, which means feeling detached from emotions or physical sensations. Some people completely forget the trauma.
• Preoccupation with an abuser. It is not uncommon to fixate on the abuser, the relationship with the abuser, or getting revenge for the abuse.