Recognizing Trauma Symptoms: When to Seek Help

Introduction

Trauma is a word we hear often, but many people don’t realize how deeply it can affect their daily lives. Whether you’ve experienced a single traumatic event or ongoing distress, trauma doesn’t always show up in obvious ways. Sometimes, it takes time for the effects to become clear. As a therapist here in Round Rock, TX, I’m Cassia Helena, LCSW, and I’m here to help you understand how trauma might be impacting you and when it’s time to seek support.

What Are the Signs of Trauma?

Trauma symptoms can be both physical and emotional, and they often show up in ways we don’t expect. You might be feeling irritable or anxious all the time, have trouble sleeping, or find yourself avoiding places or people that remind you of something painful. Maybe you feel disconnected from your emotions or your relationships, or you’re reliving certain memories over and over again. It’s also common for trauma to show up as physical symptoms—like headaches, muscle tension, or fatigue—without a clear cause (Van der Kolk, 2014).

Emotional Symptoms of Trauma

Emotional symptoms of trauma can include intense feelings of fear, anger, sadness, or even numbness. It’s common for people to feel stuck in a loop of reliving the trauma or avoiding it altogether. This could mean flashbacks, nightmares, or constantly feeling on edge. You may also struggle with feelings of shame or guilt, even if the trauma wasn’t your fault (Herman, 1992). If these emotional responses are interfering with your daily life, it might be time to consider therapy.

Physical Symptoms of Trauma

While we often think of trauma as an emotional response, it can have a significant impact on the body. Trauma survivors might experience chronic pain, tension, or unexplained health issues. Your body holds onto trauma in ways that can affect your physical health, whether through headaches, digestive issues, or chronic fatigue (Van der Kolk, 2014). These physical symptoms are just as important to address as the emotional ones, and they’re often a signal that therapy could be beneficial.

When Should You Seek Help for Trauma?

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms and they’re disrupting your ability to live a balanced, fulfilling life, it’s time to seek help. Trauma therapy, including EMDR, can be a powerful way to reprocess traumatic memories and reduce the emotional and physical toll they take on you. At The Counseling Choice in Round Rock, TX, I specialize in working with clients who are ready to take the next step in their healing journey. Whether your trauma is from childhood, a recent event, or anything in between, we can work together to process it in a safe, supportive environment.

Why Choose Trauma Therapy in Round Rock, TX?

Living in the Round Rock or Austin area, you don’t have to face trauma on your own. Finding a local therapist who specializes in trauma can make a world of difference. I’m here to help you navigate your symptoms, understand their roots, and take the steps toward recovery. Trauma doesn’t have to define your future, and with the right therapy, you can find relief and healing.

Conclusion

Trauma can manifest in many different ways, both emotionally and physically, but you don’t have to suffer in silence. Recognizing the symptoms is the first step toward healing, and trauma therapy can provide the tools you need to reclaim your life. If you’re in the Round Rock or Austin area and are ready to take that step, contact me, Cassia Helena, LCSW, at The Counseling Choice. Together, we can work toward a healthier, more peaceful life.

Works Cited

• Herman, Judith Lewis. Trauma and Recovery: The Aftermath of Violence—From Domestic Abuse to Political Terror. Basic Books, 1992.
• Van der Kolk, Bessel A. The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma. Penguin Books, 2014.