Trauma refers to a deeply distressing or disturbing experience that overwhelms an individual’s ability to cope. It can result from a single incident, such as an accident, natural disaster, or act of violence, or from prolonged exposure to adverse conditions, like abuse or chronic neglect. Trauma affects not only the mind but also the body, as the stress response can become dysregulated, leading to physical and emotional symptoms.

There are three main types of trauma: acute, chronic, and complex. Acute trauma arises from a single event, while chronic trauma results from repeated exposure to distressing situations. Complex trauma often stems from pervasive harm, especially during formative years, such as childhood abuse.