In the second part of this four-part series, we examined the different types of trauma responses: acute, chronic, complex, and secondary. We also briefly explored adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). Understanding these categories helps clarify why trauma can have varying consequences. In this third part of the series, we’ll review the effects of trauma on the brain, body, and emotions. Most importantly, we’ll also consider the possibility of positive psychological change.
As we learned in part one of this series, experiencing a traumatic event activates our sympathetic nervous system, triggering physical and emotional changes. For example, heart rate increases, muscles tense, and we feel anxious as we prepare to flee the scene of a natural disaster.
In the short term, this response is protective. Emotional reactions such as fear, anxiety, and anger are common ways we promote survival. For most individuals, once the immediate threat passes, the body gradually returns to equilibrium. Distressing emotions fade, and daily functioning resumes.
However, for some individuals, the stress response does not fully resolve. The brain may become overly reactive, responding strongly even to minor stressors. This hypersensitivity can lead to ongoing hypervigilance, a constant monitoring of the environment for potential threats. Living in this persistent state of alertness can be exhausting and disruptive.
Long-term trauma effects, like hypervigilance, may also include extreme anxiety, persistent sadness, anger, survivor’s guilt, dissociation, where individuals feel disconnected from themselves or others, or difficulty experiencing pleasure. Sleep disturbances and physical pain are also common. Relationships may become strained and self-esteem may decline. In certain cases, individuals develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which is marked by intrusive memories, avoidance behaviors, and heightened arousal.
However, trauma does not always result solely in harm. Positive psychological change is also possible. Some individuals, after acknowledging the difficulty of their experiences, begin to see themselves not as victims but as survivors. This shift in perspective can foster resilience and personal growth. People may develop stronger coping skills, cultivate deeper relationships, redefine their priorities, or gain a renewed sense of purpose or spiritual meaning. This phenomenon, often referred to as post-traumatic growth, does not erase distress. It is a positive effect of trauma, but it may coexist with PTSD symptoms. A person can struggle with lingering effects while simultaneously developing strength and insight.
Research identifies several resilience factors that protect against long-term psychological difficulties. These include optimism, cognitive flexibility, active coping strategies, maintaining supportive relationships, attending to physical health, and embracing a personal moral compass or sense of purpose. Establishing a sense of safety is particularly critical for recovery.
Trauma can disrupt emotional regulation and alter one’s sense of self and security. Yet human beings possess remarkable adaptive capacity. With time, support, and effective coping, many individuals regain stability.
In the final blog of this series, we will focus on recovery, treatment options, how to support someone who has experienced trauma, and common misconceptions that can hinder healing.
If you would like to consult a professional counselor about your experience of trauma or have any other mental health concerns, please contact Olive Branch Counseling Associates at 708-633-8000. Appointments are available in person at our office located at 6819 167th Street in Tinley Park, IL 60477, or through convenient telehealth sessions. We look forward to supporting you.
Molly Vacha
Graduate Intern, 2026
Olive Branch Counseling Associates, Inc.
Reference
Psychology Today. (2019). Trauma. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/trauma
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