Shock, denial, or disbelief

Confusion, inability to concentrate

Anger, irritability, mood swings

Anxiety and fear

Guilt, shame, self-blame

Sadness or hopelessness

Disconnection or numbness

Physical symptoms e.g. headaches

We often think of traumas as one-off major events such as road accidents, sexual assault or bereavement but this is not always the case. We can experience many less obvious traumas in our lives, which may not immediately spring to mind, and can include events that happened in childhood. These “small t" traumas can accumulate and become quite toxic for us. Many clients are surprised to discover the extent of their personal traumatic memories and the impact they can have.

Traumatic memories are not always readily accessible as our minds can employ highly effective defence mechanisms and repress these memories in an attempt to keep us safe. However, this hidden trauma can often explain our negative emotional responses and behaviour patterns in the present moment. It can also have a negative impact on our relationships with others.

Strong emotional reactions to certain people

Being triggered by specific places or situations

Difficulty regulating your emotions

Trouble maintaining employment

Struggling with fears of abandonment

Friends often saying you “act childishly”

A tendency to self-sabotage

Feeling emotionally exhausted

Persistent anxiety

Challenges with anger management

Relying on alcohol or other substances to cope

Persistent feelings of depression

Low self-esteem