Everybody responds to trauma differently and the way you feel may change over time.

Immediately after a traumatic event you might feel: 

• Shocked 
• Like the event didn’t happen 
• Unsure how you are feeling 
• Numb or nothing at all

It may take time for you to realise you have experienced trauma, especially if you don’t feel much afterwards or if it is a series of events. It can sometimes take a whole to feel the effects of a traumatic event. This can be confusing but is a normal reaction. 

If something ‘big’ or ‘scary’ happens and you don’t react how you would expect- it does not mean there is anything wrong with you. It is important to remember there is no ‘right’ way to react when you experience trauma. 

However you feel is valid. 

After experiencing trauma, it can impact our mental health. It might make you feel: 

• Anxious 
• Angry 
• Sad 
• Worried 
• Guilty 
• Irritable 
• Bad about ourselves- like we deserved it 

You might also notice things such as:

• Vivid dreams or nightmares 
• Sleep problems 
• Difficulty concentrating or thinking clear 
• Changes in appetite 
• Feeling disconnected from your body or emotions
• Changes in behaviour or mood 

What can you do if you are experiencing trauma? 

• Reach out for help 
• Practice self care 
• Practice grounding techniques 
• Be kind to yourself 

Sometimes, trauma can change how we feel about ourselves. You may not even realise that there is a connection between a traumatic event and how we’re feeling, but with help you can figure out what is causing us to struggle and find ways to feel better.