A Vancouver Trauma Therapy Clinic Answers: Am I Experiencing a Trauma Response or a Stress Response?
Written by: Kristie Burkett, RP-Qualifying, MACP Candidate
Given how fast-paced our world is, it's not uncommon to feel overwhelmed by the challenges and changes life throws our way. But how do we differentiate between a normal stress response and something more serious, like a trauma response? Understanding the distinction is important for our mental and emotional well-being. Being aware of the purpose to an emotional and behavioural response, it allows us to navigate it more smoothly.
So,what is a stress response?
Stress is our body’s natural reaction to life's demands and pressures, it is a physiological and psychological reaction to perceived threat in our environment. It's our body's way of responding to any kind of demand or threat, whether it's a tight deadline at work or a sudden illness. While stress is a universal experience, its intensity, the impact, and one’s tolerance can vary significantly from person to person.
There are different types of stress:
Positive stress energizes and motivates us to overcome challenges. This is where growth can occur.
Tolerable stress is more serious and related to significant life events, but it's usually manageable with the support of friends or family.
Toxic stress, the most harmful type, stems from prolonged exposure to challenging situations without adequate support, leading to detrimental effects on health and well-being.
now, let’s understand trauma..
Trauma, on the other hand, is an emotional response to a distressing event that overwhelms an individual's ability to cope. Trauma is anything that shocks your system- it does not have to be a big life event. It’s could resemble sexual trauma, attachment trauma, medical trauma, childhood trauma… the list goes on. Trauma can arise from direct experiences or witnessing/ hearing particular circumstances.
One trauma experience can have an after shock for years to come, it includes a range of emotional reactions like shock, denial, flashbacks, strained relationships, and even physical symptoms like headaches or nausea. It's important to recognize that these responses are normal; however, if they persist and start affecting day-to-day life, they might indicate signs aligned with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
When we have experienced something traumatic, one little sight, sound or event can trigger a past memory which sends our body back into the physiological state it was in during the traumatic event.
You may immediately feel an increase in your heart rate, hypervigilence, or a completely numb and shutdown response.
It is important to let your body know in this moment that you are currently safe. Labelling it as a trauma response will keep you empowered in this process.
Differentiating Between Trauma and Stress :
While both stress and trauma involve emotional and physical reactions to challenging situations, the key difference lies in the severity and persistence of responses.
Trauma responses typically result in more severe and prolonged emotional distress. In some cases they may even become chronic. Stress, although it can be overwhelming, usually relates to more everyday challenges and pressures which then go away once those pressures have left our side.
A trauma response is often linked to a past distressing event while a stress response is typically focused on a present challenge.
Recognizing Your Experience:
Name It To Tame It
If you're experiencing intense emotions, flashbacks, or physical symptoms like nausea in response to a traumatic event, it could be a sign of a trauma response. Conversely, if your symptoms are related to everyday challenges and pressures, it's likely a stress response.
When we have experienced something traumatic, one little sight, sound or event can trigger a past memory which sends our body back into the physiological state it was in during the traumatic event.
You may immediately feel an increase in your heart rate, hypervigilence, or a completely numb and shutdown response.
It is important to let your body know in this moment that you are currently safe. Labelling it as a trauma response will keep you empowered in this process.
Interested in Vancouver Trauma Therapy?
If you're struggling to cope, reaching out to a Vancouver-based trauma counsellor can provide you with the support and guidance you need. Early intervention is particularly beneficial in preventing the development of more severe conditions like PTSD. Remember, acknowledging your feelings and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
We offer one of the leading evidence based Trauma modalities- EMDR Therapy. For more information, check out our EMDR Therapy Page and our Trauma & PTSD Counselling Page.
If you’d like to see how our Vancouver-based counselling team can support you using virtual counselling, reach out for support.
It’s never too early, or too late, to start your healing journey.