Most people have a basic idea of what PTSD is and what it looks like. Unfortunately, many of those ideas come from stories, television shows, or movies. That creates a lot of stereotypes surrounding PTSD and makes it more difficult to recognize some of the most common symptoms fully.

If you struggle with the effects of trauma, those issues don’t magically go away during the holiday season. In fact, the extra stress of the holidays, and even certain family triggers can make your trauma symptoms worse. 

Most people have a basic understanding of PTSD and what it looks like. While the effects can be different for everyone, the stigmas behind the condition have been largely dropped over the years.

When most people think of the effects of trauma, their thoughts go to the mental struggles. That’s valid and not something to take lightly. Trauma can certainly create feelings of anxiety, depression, and even PTSD. But, in reality, trauma lives in the body and can lead to a wide rand of physical problems that last for years when not properly treated.

Since trauma and addiction are such common issues, it only makes sense that multiple therapies and treatment options exist for both. But not everyone responds to them in the same way. Some people prefer—and sometimes need—a more unique, innovative approach to recovery.

Trauma has many adverse effects and symptoms. Some can occur right away. Others take years to expose themselves. In many cases, you may not realize the struggles you’re going through are the effects of trauma, whether from childhood or more recently.

The past may be home to traumatic experiences that continue to impact you. If so, you are far from alone. Seven out of ten Americans have experienced a traumatic event at one point in their lives. And some 90 percent of people seeking mental health treatment have undergone some form of trauma. Many of these folks struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD is a mental health condition that some people develop after experiencing or witnessing a life-threatening event. When events such as a natural disaster, a car accident, or sexual assault occur, it is common to have upsetting memories, uneasy feelings, or trouble sleeping. If symptoms last more than a few months, it may be PTSD. It's important to remember that not everyone who experiences or witnesses trauma will develop PTSD.