Mental health trauma refers to the psychological and emotional response to deeply distressing or disturbing events that overwhelm an individual's ability to cope. It can affect anyone and may have long-lasting effects on mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

What Is Trauma?

Trauma is typically triggered by events that are:

  • Sudden or unexpected
  • Emotionally overwhelming
  • Perceived as life-threatening or deeply violating

It can result from a single incident (e.g., a car accident) or chronic exposure (e.g., ongoing abuse or neglect).

Symptoms