War is one of the most distressing experiences that a person can endure. As we approach October 7th, it’s not uncommon for anniversaries of traumatic events to trigger strong emotional responses. Recognising these reactions can help us care for ourselves and our loved ones more effectively.
It’s entirely normal for people to respond differently to the events we’ve been through this year. There is no “correct” response to trauma. Some of us may feel overwhelmed, while others might seem detached or in denial. We often cope with stressful events in ways that reflect our personal histories, meaning some people may recover more slowly, and others may need additional support to process their experiences. At Advah, we understand this, and we are here to help.
Common Reactions to Trauma
It’s important to note that everyone responds to trauma in their own unique way. You may identify with some of the following symptoms, you may see them in your loved ones, or they may not resonate with you at all. Remember, it’s okay to respond differently – there is no right or wrong way to feel.
Re-experiencing: You might find yourself replaying an event in your mind or having memories of it resurface unexpectedly. This could include remembering where you were on October 7th or recalling something you saw in the news this year. Some common experiences include:
Flashbacks: Unwanted memories that make it feel as though the trauma is happening again.
Nightmares: Disturbing dreams related to the traumatic event.
Physical Reactions: You may feel in your body what you felt at the time of the original event. Trauma memories can be vivid and involve any of our senses – sight, sound, smell, taste, or touch.
Increased Arousal (‘Hyper-arousal’): Fear and anxiety are natural responses to danger, but they can linger long after the traumatic event is over. You might find that reminders of the trauma trigger anxiety, or you may feel anxious without an apparent reason. This can manifest as:
Irritability with family members or co-workers.
Difficulty concentrating or being more fidgety.
Sleep disturbances, feeling nauseous, or changes in appetite.
Avoidance: Avoiding people, places, or situations that remind you of the trauma is a common coping mechanism. For example, you might avoid watching the news or going to places associated with the event. Some people may ‘zone out’ or have difficulty discussing their experiences, as the emotions involved are too overwhelming.
Changes in Beliefs: Traumatic events can alter how we view ourselves and the world. This might include:
Seeing the world as a more dangerous place, becoming more fearful in everyday situations.
Blaming oneself for what happened.
Difficulty trusting others or finding joy in life.
Worrying that you are losing control or ‘going crazy’.
Strong Emotions: Trauma can bring a range of intense emotions, such as:
Anger and Irritability: Often exacerbated by stress, poor sleep, or unhealthy habits. It’s crucial to ensure that your basic needs are being met.
Guilt and Shame: Feeling responsible for what happened or judged by others.
Grief and Depression: Mourning what has been lost or feeling sadness about how the world has changed. Many of us are grieving for the past as we come to terms with a new, difficult reality.
Seeking Support: A Step Towards Healing
It is essential to remember that seeking help is not a sign of weakness, but a courageous step towards self-care and well-being. Each person’s experience of trauma is unique and deserves to be met with empathy, respect, and tailored support.
If you or your loved ones are experiencing these symptoms and would like additional support, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Advah. We are here to provide the care and assistance you need.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.).
Psychology Tools Limited (2020). Reactions to Trauma. Psychology Tools.
Whalley, M. G. (2018). Psychology Tools for Overcoming Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Psychology Tools.
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