Understanding Trauma-Related Disorders, Symptoms, And Treatment Options

Trauma can have a profound impact on people, often altering their lives in significant ways. Understanding trauma-related disorders, recognizing their symptoms, and exploring effective treatment options can be crucial steps toward recovery and maintaining mental health. Here, we’ll give a brief overview of what trauma is, its potential effects, and a variety of treatment options for trauma-related mental health challenges. 

The effects of trauma can be significant

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What is trauma?

Trauma occurs when an individual is completely overwhelmed by an event or series of events—typically ones in which they witness and/or nearly experience death. Traumatic events are incidents that inflict physical, emotional, spiritual, or psychological harm and often leave someone feeling physically threatened or extremely frightened. Some of the most commonly cited sources of trauma include serious car accidents, natural disasters, war, serious injury, abuse, assault, or the loss of a loved one. 

Trauma can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or socioeconomic status, but everyone reacts to trauma differently. Some people show signs of being affected by it right away. Others don’t show visible signs of distress after experiencing trauma—or they may not show signs until much later. Due to the complex and often shocking nature of trauma, many don't know how to react or might even be in denial about an event's impact. 

Some common reactions to trauma include feelings of shock and disbelief, social withdrawal or isolation, anxiety, fear, anger and irritability, depression, trouble sleeping, and muscle tension. For some people, the effects of trauma largely subside after a few weeks. For others, symptoms persist and worsen, which may indicate a trauma-related disorder. Symptoms of these disorders—such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)—typically will not resolve without treatment.

Trauma-related disorder and symptoms

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR), conditions in the category of trauma-related disorders include: 

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD is one of the most well-known trauma-related disorders. Individuals with PTSD may experience flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the traumatic event. These symptoms can interfere with daily activities, relationships, and overall health.
• Acute stress disorder (ASD). ASD occurs in the immediate aftermath of a traumatic event. It’s characterized by symptoms similar to those seen with PTSD, such as intrusive thoughts, avoidance behaviors, and heightened arousal. However, ASD typically lasts for a shorter duration—usually a month or less following the traumatic experience. If it persists, a diagnosis of PTSD will usually be considered.
• Adjustment disorders. Adjustment disorders occur when an individual has difficulty coping with a significant life change or stressor. Symptoms may include anxiety, depression, and behavioral changes. Unlike PTSD or ASD, adjustment disorders are often triggered by events such as divorce, job loss, or relocation.
• Reactive attachment disorder (RAD) and disinhibited social engagement disorder (DSED). RAD and DSED are trauma-related disorders that primarily affect children who have experienced severe neglect or abuse. RAD is characterized by difficulty forming healthy attachments to caregivers, while DSED involves overly familiar behavior with strangers. Both disorders can have lasting effects on a child's social and emotional development.
• Anxiety disorders. Anxiety disorders are a common result of experiencing traumatic events. These disorders encompass a range of conditions characterized by excessive fear, worry, and related behavioral disturbances. Especially when linked to trauma, untreated anxiety disorders can become debilitating, affecting an individual's ability to function in daily life.
• Substance use disorders. Trauma can also contribute to the development of substance misuse and substance use disorders. Individuals may use substances as a way to cope with the overwhelming emotions and stress associated with their traumatic experiences. This can lead to a cycle of dependency and further complicate recovery.

If you are struggling with substance use, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at (800) 662-4357 to receive support and resources. Support is available 24/7.

How therapy can help

In most cases, therapy plays a critical role in the recovery process for individuals with trauma-related disorders. Through therapy, individuals can gain insight into their experiences, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and work toward healing.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a widely used approach that helps individuals identify and shift negative thought patterns and related behaviors. For trauma-related disorders, CBT may help reduce symptoms by addressing the thoughts and feelings associated with the traumatic event.

Additionally, therapy can help individuals with trauma-related disorders build resilience, improve relationships, and foster self-compassion by focusing on important aspects of healing and stress management. Therapy can also teach people how to navigate challenges with greater ease through techniques such as mindfulness, relaxation exercises, and cognitive restructuring.

Online therapy has become an increasingly popular option for individuals seeking help for trauma-related disorders due to its convenience and lower costs than most in-person sessions without insurance. Online platforms connect individuals with licensed mental health professionals who provide therapy through video calls, phone calls, and/or in-app messaging. This format allows individuals to receive flexible support from the comfort of their own homes. Research suggests that online therapy can be an effective component of treatment for individuals with PTSD in many cases.

Exploring other treatment options

Treatment for trauma-related disorders often involves a combination of therapeutic approaches and support systems. Some other treatment options for individuals experiencing the effects of trauma include: 

• Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). EMDR is a specialized therapy designed to help individuals process and integrate traumatic memories. Through guided eye movements or other bilateral stimulation, EMDR aims to reduce the distress associated with traumatic memories and improve emotional regulation.
• Prolonged exposure therapy (PE). PE involves gradually exposing individuals to trauma-related memories, feelings, and situations in a controlled and safe environment. This process helps reduce the fear and avoidance behaviors often associated with PTSD and other trauma-related disorders.
• Medication. Medication can be an essential component of treatment for trauma-related disorders in certain cases, especially when symptoms are severe. Antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and others may help a person manage symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Remember to always consult with your doctor before starting, stopping, or changing any type of medication.
• Support groups. Support groups can provide a valuable space for individuals to share their experiences and connect with others who have faced similar challenges. These groups can offer emotional support, validation, and practical advice for coping with trauma-related symptoms. They may be led by mental health professionals or peers who have undergone training to facilitate group discussions.