Trauma
Psychological trauma is the emotional and physiological response to a deeply distressing or threatening event that overwhelms a person's ability to cope.
Definition
Trauma results from experiencing or witnessing frightening, dangerous, or overwhelming events. Reactions vary widely and can include intrusive memories, avoidance, mood changes, and heightened arousal. Many people recover over time; when symptoms persist, they may reflect PTSD. Screening measures symptom levels.
What it can feel like
- Distressing memories or nightmares of the event.
- Avoiding reminders of what happened.
- Feeling on edge, jumpy, or emotionally numb.
- Changes in mood, trust, or sense of safety.
Related screening tests on LuriaLab
Related glossary terms
Häufig gestellte Fragen
Does trauma always lead to PTSD?
No. Many people have trauma reactions that ease with time and support. PTSD is diagnosed when specific symptoms persist and cause impairment.
What counts as trauma?
Trauma can follow accidents, violence, abuse, disasters, medical events, and more. Its impact depends on the person and context, not only the event.
Sources
- National Center for PTSD — trauma overview
- Weathers FW, et al. PCL-5
Last reviewed: 2026-07-02. Screening tools on LuriaLab are for education only and do not provide a diagnosis.