What is Trauma? 

In this module we will use the following definition for lived experiences that may be traumatic: 

Trauma is when our lived experiences overwhelm our ordinary responses that give us a sense of control, connection, and meaning (1). Judith Herman

> Having a sense of how things are going to happen gives a sense of control over our lives. We may experience events and situations that cause us to feel unbalanced and unsure of what will happen next. We may feel dysregulated or losing a sense of control.

> Humans have always depended on connection with others in order to survive. We are wired to be connected. Trauma may cause us to be separated from people we depend on or care for. Relationships and routine may be disrupted. 

> We are meaning-making people. We need to understand why something is happening and how it fits into our view of the world or of ourselves. Some of our lived experiences may cause us to question our beliefs and our understanding of our experiences and how we fit into the world. 

What is the difference between stress and trauma? 

Trauma is the emotional, psychological, and physiological residue left over from heightened levels of toxic stress. Therefore, not all stress is bad. Please keep in mind the following reflections between different kinds of stressful experiences, where toxic stress could lead to trauma:

Sources:

(1) Adapted from Judith Herman in Trauma and Recovery (1997)

Module Purpose | Grounding Intentions | Rock in Your Shoe | What is Trauma? | Vicarious or Secondary Trauma | Trauma and the Brain and Body | Lived Experiences | Responses to Carrying Trauma | Rock in Your Shoe Reflection | Shifting Our Perspectives | Creating Safety and Well-Being | Supporting Healing