When it comes to trauma and anxiety, the symptoms can be confusing and overwhelming.
With this blog post, Dr. David Gross, a board-certified psychiatrist, Medical Director at The Center for Treatment of Anxiety and Mood Disorders, and Co-founder of The Children’s Center for Psychiatry, Psychology, & Related Services, explains the similarities and differences between these conditions as well as when and how to seek help.
Q: What is the difference between trauma and anxiety?
A: Trauma is the emotional and psychological response to a distressing event; such as an accident, loss, or abuse, that overwhelms a person’s ability to cope. Anxiety is a persistent state of fear or worry. While anxiety can develop after trauma, it may also occur independently.
In short:
- Trauma is event-driven.
- Anxiety is a sustained emotional response that may or may not be tied to a traumatic experience.
Q: What is the difference between Trauma Syndrome, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Complex PTSD (C-PTSD), and Acute Stress Disorder (ASD)?
A: These conditions all relate to how a person responds to trauma, but they differ in severity, timing, and the nature of the trauma:
- Trauma Syndrome is a broad term for the symptoms that may arise after trauma.
- Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) occurs within the first 3 to 30 days after a traumatic event and includes symptoms like dissociation, intrusive memories, and hypervigilance.
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is diagnosed when symptoms last longer than a month and significantly affect daily life.
- Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) results from long-term or repeated trauma, such as ongoing abuse. It includes traditional PTSD symptoms, along with deeper issues like emotional regulation difficulties, persistent shame, and trouble with relationships.
Q: Can PTSD and C-PTSD only be caused by “intense” trauma?
A: Not at all. PTSD and C-PTSD can result from any event that is perceived as traumatic, regardless of how severe it appears from the outside. For example, research shows that witnessing a loved one’s serious illness or staying in a hospital can lead to PTSD. Trauma is defined by its impact on the individual, not the event itself.
Q: Can someone experience trauma without realizing it?
A: Yes. Not all trauma is immediately recognized. Some individuals may downplay their experience or compare it to others, thinking “it wasn’t that bad.” However, the body and brain can still carry the imprint of the trauma, leading to symptoms like irritability, anxiety, sleep disturbances, or physical tension—sometimes years later. Recognizing subtle or overlooked forms of trauma (such as childhood emotional neglect or long-term caregiving stress) is an important step toward healing.
Q: How do trauma and anxiety affect physical health?
A: Trauma and chronic anxiety can have a significant impact on the body. Common physical symptoms include fatigue, headaches, digestive issues, muscle tension, and disrupted sleep. Over time, untreated psychological stress can contribute to conditions like high blood pressure, cardiovascular issues, or a weakened immune system. This mind-body connection is why holistic treatment approaches are often recommended.
Q: How is trauma stored in the brain? Can this lead to more stress?
A: Trauma affects multiple parts of the brain. The amygdala becomes overactive, triggering fear responses; the hippocampus may struggle to process the memory correctly, making it feel “stuck”; and the prefrontal cortex, which helps regulate emotion, may become less active. This can lead to chronic stress and anxiety, even long after the trauma occurred.
Q: What should I do if I think someone I love is suffering from trauma or anxiety?
A: If symptoms are interfering with daily life, it’s important to seek help from a qualified mental health professional. A proper evaluation can clarify what’s happening and guide treatment.
Effective treatments may include:
- Trauma-focused therapy, such as EMDR
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Medication, if appropriate
- Mind-body approaches like mindfulness or yoga
- Family or group therapy to strengthen support
Healing is possible, and you don’t have to navigate it alone. Our team is here to help.
If you’re ready to explore treatment options or have more questions, we invite you to contact us today. We’re here to support you and your loved ones on the path to healing. Contact us today to learn more.