Based on this definition all of us have experienced some form of trauma in our lives.   Trauma may also be defined as an experience that is emotionally painful, distressful, or shocking and which may result in lasting mental and physical effects.

People of all ages may display a wide range of responses to trauma, including feelings of fear, grief, depression and anxiety. Physical and behavioral responses such as nausea, dizziness, changes in appetite and sleep patterns, and withdrawal from daily activities may occur in relation to Traumatic events. Trauma experienced during childhood (i.e., physical and/or sexual abuse) can actually reprogram the neurological pathways and have an impact on normal emotional functioning later in life.

Psychiatric trauma is essentially a normal response to an extreme event. It involves the creation of emotional memories about the distressful event that are stored in structures deep within the brain. Experts in trauma research believe, the more direct the exposure to the traumatic event the higher the risk for emotional harm. 

Stressful events occur in every life, but when the event (or series of events) causes excessive stress, it is called a Traumatic Event. Traumatic events are marked by a sense of horror, helplessness, serious injury, or the threat of serious injury or death. None of us are fully prepared to deal with violent or traumatic events.

Trauma can come from many sources such as assault, abuse, war, natural disaster, accidents, loss of a loved one, destructive relationships, or any number of other tragedies. This typically unexpected experience overtakes the survivor and often times leaves long lasting negative psychological effects. 

Major traumatic events can also produce Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in the survivor. PTSD is an anxiety disorder that can develop after exposure to a terrifying event or ordeal in which grave physical harm occurred or was threatened. Many people with PTSD repeatedly re-experience the ordeal in the form of flashback episodes, memories, nightmares, or frightening thoughts, especially when they are exposed to events or objects that are reminiscent of the trauma. Anniversaries of the event can also trigger symptoms.