Symptoms to Watch for with Trauma Victims

Physical reactions

  • Problems eating/upset stomach
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Exhaustion
  • Increased heart rate/breathing
  • Headache
  • Cold sweats
  • Failure to engage in exercise, diet, safe sex, regular health care
  • Excessive smoking, drinking, drugs, food
  • Worsening of current medical problems

Emotional reactions

  • Feeling nervous, helpless, fearful, sad
  • Feeling shock, numb, unable to experience love or joy
  • A voiding people, places, and other things related to the event
  • Loss of intimacy or feeling detached
  • Irritability
  • Withdrawal, feeling rejected or abandoned
  • Distrust of others
  • Self-blame