Support 2

Trauma

Trauma can be the event and the way it makes us feel after the event.

What is trauma? 

When we experience or see someone else experience a stressful, frightening or distressing event that is trauma. Trauma can be the event and the way it makes us feel after the event.

When a person has experienced a shocking, unexpected or traumatic incident they might have emotional and physical shock that may last for a long time after the trauma. These reactions are normal, but will be very unique, personal and individual.

Here are some reactions that people can experience after a trauma:

Physical

  • tension in the muscles
  • tiredness & exhaustion
  • little desire to do anything
  • hyperactivity
  • headaches
  • increased, rapid heartbeat
  • other physical pains

Emotional

  • feelings of hopelessness
  • guilt
  • depression
  • anxiety
  • moodiness
  • panic attacks
  • nightmares
  • loss in self-confidence or concentration

Behavioural

  • increased smoking and/or drinking
  • workaholism, or not turning up to work
  • personal neglect
  • nail biting
  • impulsiveness
  • twitches, tapping fingers, etc.
  • changes in eating patterns

Trauma can affect how you feel about yourself and even how you feel about the world. It’s important to remember that trauma reactions are normal, they are not your fault, and there are things that can help.

For more information about how we react to trauma and some of the things that can help, have a look at our self-help guide. 

Support services and resources

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I need help

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Support services

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Refer yourself

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Learning disability and autism support

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Information on rape and sexual abuse

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Victim-survivor resources

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Friends and family resources

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General information

The latest from our news and blogs

SARC

What is a sexual assault referral centre (SARC)?

A SARC can offer free, confidential medical, practical and emotional support to people who have been raped, sexually abused or assaulted at any point in their lives. They’re usually provided by the NHS, but will always have specially trained doctors, nurses and support workers.

UoB_Stall with Safelink

We’re Here: a campaign for survivors of sexual assault in Bristol

Over the past few weeks, we’ve been proud to be part of something really special. The “We’re Here” campaign launched across Bristol to let survivors of sexual assault know: you’re not alone, and there is support.

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Be the change: how to be an Active Bystander

We can all be bystanders. Every day events unfold around us. At some point, we will register someone in danger. When this happens, we can decide to do or say something (and become an active bystander), or to let it go (and remain a passive bystander).