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

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Introducing our FREE ‘Drop-In & Reach Out’ support service in Bristol

This year, we were proud to launch our new, free ‘Drop In & Reach Out’ service – designed to provide accessible emotional support and wellbeing resources to people in Inner City and East Bristol.

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Isabelle Smith, star of Hollyoaks: Why I’m running the Great Manchester Run for SARSAS

We’re so proud to share that Isabelle Smith, Hollyoaks star, is running the Great Manchester Run 10k this weekend in support of SARSAS!

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.